Nigeria’s national team coach, Eric Chelle, has announced his first provisional squad since taking charge in January, naming 35 players ahead of the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe on March 21 and 25.
The extended list includes several notable returns, headlined by Ahmed Musa, who has been recalled for the first time since the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
The veteran forward, now playing for Kano Pillars in Nigeria’s domestic league, will bring experience to the squad.
Midfielder Joe Aribo of Southampton also makes his return after a spell out of international contention.
Chelle has introduced six new players to the squad, with a strong focus on homegrown talent.
Among the debutants are Papa Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes), Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars FC), and Ifeanyi Emmanuel Onyebuchi (Enugu Rangers), all of whom have impressed in the Nigeria Professional Football League.
Jerome Akor Adams of Sevilla, previously capped at the U20 level, has also been included despite a recent thigh injury.
Meanwhile, Maduka Okoye (Udinese) and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio) have been named in the squad despite carrying injuries.
Key regulars such as William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood), Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray), and Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United) are also present.
Ademola Lookman, who won the African Player of the Year award but has struggled for form at Atalanta, remains part of the squad.
Chelle will trim the squad to 23 players next week before the Super Eagles begin their crucial qualifying matches.
Currently sitting fifth in their six-team group, Nigeria will need strong performances to revive their World Cup hopes.
Roster for #2026WCQ vs Rwanda and Zimbabwe #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/rljpOZkyyd
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) March 4, 2025
