Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has made two late changes to his 2026 World Cup qualifying squad, Footynaija.com reports.
FC Porto defender Zaidu Sanusi and Crystal Palace’s Chrisantus Uche have been drafted in to replace the injured duo of Cyriel Dessers and Bright Osayi-Samuel.
The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed the updates on Saturday, just days before the Super Eagles regroup in Polokwane, South Africa, ahead of their crucial qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin.
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Eric Chelle makes two changes to his 23-man squad as Zaidu Sanusi and Christantus Uche replace the injured Cyriel Dessers and Bright Osayi-Samuel. #SoarSuperEagles #FIFAWCQ pic.twitter.com/PeC6VloKOh
— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) October 4, 2025
Nigeria sit third in Group C, three points behind leaders Benin and South Africa, meaning victory in both games is essential to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Sanusi’s recall is a significant boost for Chelle’s side. The 27-year-old left-back has fought his way back to fitness after an ACL injury ruled him out for most of last season, and this is his first call-up under the new coach. He’s featured in every league game for Porto this term, contributing a goal and several solid defensive displays.
Uche, meanwhile, earns his first competitive call-up after joining Palace from Getafe in the summer. The energetic midfielder has made one Premier League appearance and will provide depth in Chelle’s evolving midfield setup.
Players are expected to begin reporting to camp from Monday as Nigeria’s qualification bid enters a defining phase.
