The Super Eagles are in danger of missing out on the 2026 World Cup after a shaky start to their qualifiers, picking up just three points from four games, Footynaija.com reports.
That leaves them fifth in Group C, behind Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin, who are all on seven points. With two must-win games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe coming up, Chelle can’t afford to get his squad selection wrong.
Here are seven players Nigeria must have in the squad to turn things around:
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1. Victor Osimhen
No surprises here. Osimhen is Nigeria’s biggest weapon in attack and one of the best strikers in the world. The Napoli forward, currently on loan at Galatasaray, has been in scintillating form, netting four goals in eight appearances, including a brace against Tottenham in the Europa League.
His pace, power, and finishing are second to none. And, as we saw at the 2023 AFCON final, even when he’s not scoring, his work rate and movement create space for others. If the Super Eagles are going to get the goals they need, Osimhen has to be on that plane.
2. William Troost-Ekong
Nigeria needs leadership at the back, and Troost-Ekong brings exactly that. The Super Eagles captain was outstanding at AFCON, helping to marshal the defense and showing great composure in high-pressure situations.
His aerial ability and experience will be needed, especially against teams that will look to test Nigeria on set pieces.
3. Alex Iwobi
Creativity has been a major issue for Nigeria, and that’s where Iwobi comes in. This season is the 28-year-oldʼs best in the Premier League.
He has scored 7 goals and helped his teammates score 3 more in 27 games for Fulham. He is one of the few players in the squad who can pick a pass, break defensive lines, and keep things ticking in midfield.
4. Ademola Lookman
Lookman was one of Nigeria’s top players at AFCON, scoring three important goals and giving defenders trouble. At Atalanta, he has been solid this season with seven goals and four assists.
Chelle cannot afford to leave him out. If Lookman gets going, he can be the game-changer Nigeria needs. For obvious reasons, the African best player has been on the radar of many European clubs.
5. Ola Aina
Nigeria needs defenders who can both defend well and contribute going forward, and Aina fits the bill perfectly.
The Nottingham Forest right-back has been solid at the back, quick, and good on the ball. His versatility also gives Chelle options, as he can play in different defensive roles if needed.
6. Moses Simon
Moses Simon has been one of Nigeria’s most consistent players in recent years. He may not always make headlines, but his pace, dribbling, and work rate make him a key part of the team.
At Nantes, he has scored six goals and made seven assists this season, showing he still has a lot to offer. His finishing may sometimes be frustrating, but he can create space for his team to attack and also help defend when needed.
7. Wilfred Ndidi
Midfield battles win games, and Ndidi is one of Nigeria’s most reliable ball-winners. The Leicester City midfielder breaks up play, protects the backline, and keeps the team balanced.
With Nigeria’s challenge controlling the midfield, especially when faced with compact teams during previous games, his presence could be the difference between another frustrating result and a much-needed win.
The games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe are a must-win, and Nigeria needs its best players on the pitch. Eric Chelle has a huge job on his hands here. These seven players are just too important to leave out.
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