Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, is expected to announce his final 23-man squad this week ahead of Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The Malian tactician, who recently unveiled a 39-man provisional list, is preparing for his first official games since taking charge of the three-time African champions.
The upcoming fixtures are vital for the Super Eagles, who are currently struggling in Group C.
Among the eye-catching names in the provisional squad is veteran forward and former team captain, Ahmed Musa, who has been recalled to the national setup after nearly a year’s absence.
Chelle is expected to finalize and release the list shortly after the conclusion of the UEFA Champions League round-of-16 ties on Wednesday.
The squad will then commence preparations in Kigali, Rwanda, on Sunday, ahead of the must-win matches.
Nigeria currently sits fifth in Group C with only three points from four games—three draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, and a shock defeat to Benin Republic.
The team’s qualification hopes now hinge on their performances in the upcoming fixtures.
The Super Eagles will face Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 before hosting Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on March 25.
Both matches are seen as pivotal in reviving Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, set to be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.