Nigeria has announced its 23-man Super Eagles squad for the October 2025 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin.
Head coach Eric Chelle included Sevilla striker Akor Adams for his debut, alongside returning stars like captain William Troost-Ekong.
Key Players
Stanley Nwabali anchors the goal, backed by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye.
Defenders Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi, Benjamin Fredrick, and Calvin Bassey provide a solid backline.
Midfield Strength
The midfield features Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf, blending experience and dynamism. Semi Ajayi, Terem Moffi, and Olakunle Olusegun also return after absences.
Attack Options
Up front, Victor Osimhen leads with Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, and Olakunle Olusegun. Adams’ call-up adds fresh firepower.
Group C Context
Nigeria sits third in Group C with 11 points after eight matches, behind Benin and South Africa at 14 each.
A FIFA sanction awarded Lesotho a 3-0 win over South Africa, revamping the standings. Rwanda has 11, Lesotho 9, and Zimbabwe 4 is out.
Qualification Path
The Super Eagles face Lesotho on October 10 in Polokwane, then Benin on October 14 in Uyo. Two wins would reach 17 points, potentially topping the group or earning a best runner-up spot.
Benin’s Position
Benin, with a strong defense conceding seven goals, plays Rwanda and Nigeria next. A Kigali win gets them to 17, needing just a draw in Uyo to qualify.
South Africa’s Hurdle
South Africa must beat Zimbabwe and Rwanda for 20 points. A loss could let Nigeria or Benin pass, with head-to-head ties offering no edge.
Rwanda’s Chance
Rwanda meets Benin and South Africa. Two wins yield 17, but their five goals scored may weaken tiebreakers.
Lesotho’s Boost
Lesotho’s awarded win gives nine points, but beating Nigeria and Zimbabwe is unlikely, with a -3 goal difference hurting chances.
Stakes High
Group C is a four-way battle. Nigeria’s +2 goal difference needs improvement to match Benin and South Africa.
What’s Next
October’s games decide Group C’s 2026 World Cup spot. Nigeria needs wins to seize this lifeline.
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