The Squad Announcement: Chelle’s 23-Man List
Coach Eric Chelle has released his 23-man squad for Nigeria’s decisive October qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin.
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New Face: Sevilla striker Akor Adams earns his maiden call-up, bringing fresh firepower to the attack.
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Key Returnees: Captain William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi, Terem Moffi, and Alhassan Yusuf return to strengthen the side.
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Forwards Galore: Alongside Victor Osimhen, the list features Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Cyriel Dessers, Olakunle Olusegun, and others.
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Midfield Concerns: Only four midfielders — Iwobi, Ndidi, Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf — have been named. Fans fear a lack of creativity could haunt the team.
Chelle’s choices sparked debate: Is the squad balanced enough for must-win games, or has he gambled too heavily on attacking depth?
The Qualification Boost: FIFA’s Sanction Against South Africa
A dramatic twist in Group C has given Nigeria a lifeline.
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FIFA ruled South Africa fielded an ineligible midfielder, Teboho Mokoen, in their March win over Lesotho.
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Result overturned: Lesotho awarded a 3–0 victory.
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South Africa docked three points.
New Group C Standings:
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Benin – 14 pts
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South Africa – 14 pts
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Nigeria – 11 pts
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Rwanda – 11 pts
Suddenly, Nigeria is just three points off the top spot. With two games left, the Super Eagles can seize qualification with back-to-back wins.
The Task Ahead: Lesotho & Benin Showdowns
Fixtures:
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Lesotho vs Nigeria – 10 October 2025 (Polokwane, SA)
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Nigeria vs Benin – 14 October 2025 (Uyo, Nigeria)
What’s required?
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Maximum six points. Anything less risks playoffs or elimination.
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Goal difference matters. Emphatic wins will strengthen Nigeria’s case if the group is decided on goals.
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Focus & ruthlessness. Chelle must field a balanced team that dominates early and kills games off.
Simply put: qualification is in Nigeria’s hands.
Player Watch: Osimhen, Lookman & Others
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Victor Osimhen – Back from a foot injury. His goals, leadership, and presence are essential.
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Ademola Lookman – In top form for Atalanta. Expected to stretch defenses and provide creativity.
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Alex Iwobi – Key midfield link. Needs to dictate play and connect attack.
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Wilfred Ndidi & Onyeka – Defensive steel in midfield, vital to cover gaps.
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Terem Moffi & Cyriel Dessers – Reliable striking backups if Osimhen is marked out.
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Debutant Akor Adams – The wild card. Can he seize his chance and be Nigeria’s surprise weapon?
Defensively, Troost-Ekong, Ajayi, and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali must maintain concentration.
The Bigger Picture: Hope with Pressure
Nigeria’s qualification hopes looked bleak weeks ago — but FIFA’s ruling has revived them.
Now, the Super Eagles must show grit, discipline, and ruthlessness. The midfield balance remains a worry, but with Osimhen, Lookman, and Adams in attack, goals should not be lacking.
If Nigeria secures six points, the World Cup 2026 in the USA, Mexico, and Canada awaits. Anything less will spark national disappointment.
🔥 Final Word:
Nigeria has been handed a golden second chance. The squad may have flaws, but the mission is clear: beat Lesotho, beat Benin, and book the ticket to 2026.
The ball is now at the Super Eagles’ feet.
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