The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup takes a decisive turn for Nigeria as the Super Eagles have announced their final 23-man squad for the crucial qualifiers in September.

Captain William Troost-Ekong will once again marshal the defence, while all eyes will be on striker Victor Osimhen to spearhead the attack. The squad, revealed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Friday in Abuja, is a fine blend of seasoned internationals and hungry newcomers eager to make their mark.

Midfield maestro Alex Iwobi is joined by Wilfred Ndidi and Raphael Onyedika in anchoring the center of the pitch, while the forward line boasts dazzling names like Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Moses Simon.

The defence will see trusted legs in Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, with Germany-based Felix Agu and Belgium’s Benjamin Fredericks rewarded for their recent form. In goal, Stanley Nwabali returns as the likely first choice, backed by Amas Obasogie and Adeleye Adebayo, who makes a comeback after impressing in Greece.

Two forwards—Christantus Uche and Tolu Arokodare—have also earned call-ups after catching the eye in the June friendly against Russia.

The Super Eagles begin their campaign on September 6 in Uyo, where they host Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, before traveling to Bloemfontein on September 9 for a high-stakes showdown with South Africa.

As the NFF highlighted, this selection is “a balance of experience and fresh energy,” with Nigeria determined to roar their way into the global spotlight once again.

Full Squad

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania); Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC, Greece).

Defenders: William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia); Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England); Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece); Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes, France); Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany); Benjamin Fredericks (Dender FC, Belgium).

Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England); Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England); Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas, Turkey); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio, Italy); Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium); Christantus Uche (Getafe, Spain).

Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy); Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey); Simon Moses (Paris FC, France); Cyriel Dessers (Rangers, Scotland); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium).