Nigerian midfielder Frank Onyeka has voiced his disappointment after being left out of the Super Eagles’ final 23-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Initially named in coach Eric Chelle’s provisional 39-man list, the Brentford player, currently on loan at Augsburg, was omitted from the final selection.
The Super Eagles secured a 2-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali and drew 1-1 with Zimbabwe in Uyo.
Reflecting on his exclusion, Onyeka told OmaSport TV: “I was quite sad, but the coach knows what’s best. I hope to be available for the next matches.”
Nigeria’s performance in Group C has been underwhelming. After five matchdays, the team sits fourth with seven points, trailing group leaders South Africa by six points.
The Super Eagles are set to host Rwanda on August 31 and face South Africa away on September 7.
Onyeka remains optimistic about Nigeria’s qualification chances: “We are in a difficult situation, but there is still a chance for us.We just need to win the next four matches.”
At 27, Onyeka could return to the national team for the Unity Cup in May, with four matches scheduled at Brentford Stadium.
He may also feature in an international friendly against Russia in June.
This season, Onyeka has made 25 Bundesliga appearances, recording one assist.
