Chelle’s Bold Moves Set Super Eagles on Course for 2026 World Cup

Eric Chelle is wasting no time in stamping his authority on the Super Eagles as they prepare for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. With Nigeria languishing in fifth place in Group C, the new head coach has turned to a blend of experience and fresh talent to reignite the team’s campaign.

Determined to build a squad capable of overcoming the hurdles ahead, Chelle has invited in-form players like Jerome Akor, Sevilla’s latest acquisition, Cyriel Dessers of Rangers, Nathan Tella of Bayer Leverkusen, and Slavia Prague defender Igoh Ogbu. Ogbu, in particular, steps in for the injured Semi Ajayi, while several key players from Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 qualification campaign retain their spots.

The 39-man provisional squad includes goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye; defenders William Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, and Zaidu Sanusi; midfielders Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru; and forwards Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Ahmed Musa, among others. Additionally, home-based goalkeeper Kayode Bankole and Germany-born defender Jordan Torunarigha have also been drafted in.

Chelle’s decision to mix new blood with established stars has sparked optimism. Sports analyst Philip Adefioye commended the move, emphasizing that the added competition will push players to fight for their spots. Football fan Friday Erhabor echoed this sentiment, noting that complacency had crept into the squad in the past.

Despite Nigeria’s current struggles in the qualification race, many believe the Super Eagles can still turn their fortunes around. “Our best performances often come when we’re under pressure,” Erhabor stated.

As Chelle gears up for his debut game as Nigeria’s head coach, all eyes will be on the Super Eagles when they face Rwanda in Kigali on March 21, before returning home to battle Zimbabwe in Uyo four days later. With a rejuvenated squad and a coach eager to make his mark, Nigeria’s quest for the 2026 World Cup is about to take flight.