Nigeria have been forced to make last-minute changes to their squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers, with head coach Eric Chelle bringing in two replacements after injuries ruled out key players Bright Osayi-Samuel and Cyriel Dessers.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed in an official statement that Zaidu Sanusi and Chrisantus Uche have been drafted into the Super Eagles’ roster to fill the void left by the sidelined duo.
The adjustment comes just days before the national team embarks on its next round of qualifying fixtures, which are seen as pivotal in shaping their path to the tournament.
Osayi-Samuel, who has been a consistent presence at right-back, and Dessers, a forward who has impressed with his goal-scoring instincts, were both part of Chelle’s initial selection.
Their withdrawal is a significant setback, particularly given the importance of squad continuity during a high-stakes qualification campaign.
However, Chelle moved swiftly to ensure the team’s balance and depth would not be compromised.
Sanusi, who plays his club football with FC Porto, offers a wealth of experience at left-back and has previously featured prominently for Nigeria in competitive fixtures.
His recall brings defensive solidity and attacking versatility down the flank.
Chrisantus Uche, meanwhile, is widely regarded as one of the most promising emerging talents in Nigerian football, capable of injecting pace and creativity into the attack.
The reshuffle underscores the depth of the Super Eagles’ talent pool, with Chelle able to call on both seasoned internationals and rising prospects to keep Nigeria’s qualification hopes on track.
For the coach, maintaining momentum will be crucial as the team prepares for what are expected to be fiercely contested encounters in the group stage.
While the absence of Osayi-Samuel and Dessers will inevitably be felt, Sanusi and Uche’s inclusion offers Chelle tactical flexibility and fresh energy at a decisive moment.
The Super Eagles remain determined to secure their place at the 2026 World Cup, with the squad changes highlighting both the unpredictability of international football and the importance of readiness across all positions.
Nigeria’s supporters will now look to the reconfigured team to deliver performances that match the high expectations surrounding the country’s latest generation of players, as qualification for the global showpiece edges closer.
Eric Chelle makes two changes to his 23-man squad as Zaidu Sanusi and Christantus Uche replace the injured Cyriel Dessers and Bright Osayi-Samuel. #SoarSuperEagles #FIFAWCQ pic.twitter.com/PeC6VloKOh
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) October 4, 2025
