Super Eagles Head Coach, Jose Santos Peseiro, has confirmed earlier reports by leaving out injured stars Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze from Nigeria’s lineup for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Zimbabwe. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) released the 23-man squad yesterday, highlighting some notable exclusions and inclusions.
Contrary to expectations, Peseiro did not call up Gent’s Gift Orban, despite his recent hat-trick against Iceland’s Breidablik in the Europa Conference League. Instead, the Portuguese coach has summoned regular faces like goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, defenders Kenneth Omeruo and Olaoluwa Aina, midfielders Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka, and forwards Moses Simon, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Taiwo Awoniyi.
The squad also includes goalkeepers Francis Uzoho and Olorunleke Ojo, defenders Oluwasemilogo Ajayi and Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielder Raphael Onyedika, and forwards Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, and Terem Moffi. Defender Jamilu Collins makes a comeback after a long injury absence, and there is a first-ever call-up for Bayer Leverkusen forward Nathan Tella. Spain-based striker Sadiq Umar also returns after a lengthy hiatus.
According to a report by This Day Live, the Super Eagles will begin their journey to the 2026 World Cup with a game against Lesotho’s Crocodiles at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo next week. They will then travel to Rwanda to face Zimbabwe’s Warriors at the Huye Stadium in Butare on Sunday, 19th November.
The 20,000-capacity Huye Stadium, with its artificial turf, lies 135 kilometres south of the Rwandan capital, Kigali. Zimbabwe, adopting Rwanda as their home for the qualifiers, cannot use their stadiums, as none meet FIFA’s standards for World Cup qualifying games.
The invited players showcase a blend of experience and fresh talent. They come from various clubs across Europe and Africa, reflecting the global reach of Nigerian football talent.
Goalkeepers in the squad hail from Cyprus, Nigeria, and Italy, while defenders represent clubs in England, Portugal, Turkey, and Wales. The midfielders are from top clubs in Belgium and England. The forward line includes players from England, Spain, France, Italy, and Germany.
This diverse and talented group of players, under Peseiro’s guidance, faces the task of securing Nigeria’s place at the grand event in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Fans eagerly await to see how the Super Eagles will fare in these crucial matches.
