With Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe fast approaching, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle faces the critical task of selecting a midfield combination that offers both solidity and creativity.
The 2024/2025 season has seen several Nigerian midfielders excel in their various clubs all across Europe and Footynaija.com presents four in-form stars Chelle should consider ahead of the Super Eagles’ must-win fixtures on the 19th and 22nd of March respectively.
4. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio)
Dele-Bashiru, a Hatayspor player, is currently on loan at Lazio where he has been in decent form this season. Courtesy of his dribbling skills and ability to break defensive lines, the Nigeria International has been a dynamic presence in Lazio’s midfield.
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Asides his brilliance in the middle of the park, Dele-Bashiru has also contributed five goals and two assists in 23 appearances this campaign, displaying his offensive capabilities. The attacking midfielder is currently sidelined after picking up a muscle injury back in February.
However, if he regains full fitness in time, he certainly should be one of the midfielders on Chelle’s shortlist for March’s fixtures.
3. Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge)
Onyedika has been a revelation at Club Brugge since joining the Belgian side on a free transfer back in 2022, anchoring their midfield with composure and tactical intelligence. In the 2024/2025 Belgian Pro League season, the Nigeria international has logged 23 appearances, scoring once and providing stability in the middle of the park.
Onyedika’s defensive contributions are notable, with an average of 2.5 tackles and 1.8 interceptions per game. His ability to read the game and break up opposition play has been instrumental in Brugge’s bid to retain their league crown.
Based on his performances this season, the 23-year-old should be adding to his 13 international caps for Nigeria, when the Super Eagles take on Rwanda and Zimbabwe later this month.
2. Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City)
Ndidi’s return to form has been a beacon of hope for Leicester City in what has been a challenging Premier League campaign. Despite the Foxes’ struggles, the 28-year-old has displayed his defensive prowess, ranking fourth among all Premier League midfielders for defensive actions with a total of 181.
His absence due to injury in December 2024 highlighted his importance, as Leicester’s defensive frailties were seriously exposed without him. In addition to providing solidity in the midfield, Ndidi also has an offensive dimension to his game, with four assists in 18 Premier League appearances this season.
His experience and leadership will prove very vital as the Super Eagles look to salvage their qualifying campaign. Hence, for Chelle, Ndidi’s involvement should be a no-brainer.
1. Alex Iwobi (Fulham)
Iwobi has experienced a career renaissance since joining West London club Fulham. In the 2024/2025 Premier League season, the former Arsenal man has enjoyed scintillating form. He has notched seven goals and provided three assists in 27 appearances.
Iwobi’s versatility allows him to operate effectively across various midfield and attacking roles, offering tactical flexibility. Notably, the Fulham star became the Nigerian footballer with the most minutes played in Premier League history back in April 2024, surpassing John Mikel Obi.
His current form, creativity, vision and experience at the highest level make him an indispensable asset for the Super Eagles as they prepare for their must-win qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
