Nigeria has officially announced a formidable 31-man provisional squad ahead of their highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying encounter against South Africa. This crucial tie is expected to play a decisive role in shaping the outcome of Group C, with both nations eyeing a ticket to the world’s biggest football stage.
The Super Eagles, who are currently sitting on seven points from six matches, find themselves in a must-win situation as they trail Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana by six points. With only a few games left in the qualification series, Nigeria must secure maximum points to reignite their chances of qualifying for the tournament. Anything short of a victory could place their hopes in serious jeopardy.
South Africa, on the other hand, will first lock horns with Lesotho on September 5 before hosting Nigeria four days later in a clash that is already being described as one of the defining fixtures of the qualifiers. The Bafana Bafana, boosted by a strong run of form, will be determined to extend their lead at the top of the table, while Nigeria will be desperate to restore pride and reclaim their dominance in African football.
Head coach Eric Sekou Chelle has made bold decisions in his squad selection, including the recall of several experienced names and some fresh faces who have been in top form for their clubs. Captain William Troost-Ekong leads the defensive line alongside consistent performers like Ola Aina and Calvin Bassey, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali retains his place after his heroics in recent international matches.
In midfield, the Eagles will be relying on the creativity and vision of Alex Iwobi, the physicality of Wilfred Ndidi, and the industrious presence of Frank Onyeka. They are further bolstered by exciting additions such as Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who have both impressed in their respective clubs and could play a pivotal role in strengthening the squad’s depth.
Upfront, the team looks particularly dangerous, with an array of talented attackers available. Napoli striker Victor Osimhen remains the focal point of the attack, supported by the pace and trickery of Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon. Other notable inclusions are Samuel Chukwueze of AC Milan, Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella of Bayer Leverkusen, as well as Terem Moffi of OGC Nice, giving Nigeria multiple attacking options capable of unsettling any defense.
The squad also boasts European-based stars who have been enjoying impressive seasons. Their presence is expected to bring not just quality but also a wealth of experience needed for high-stakes games such as this. From defensive solidity to midfield strength and attacking firepower, the balance of the team reflects Nigeria’s determination to secure qualification against all odds.
Below is the full list of the players called up by coach Eric Sekou Chelle for Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers:
Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania); Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC, Greece); Ebenezer Harcourt (Sporting FC)
Defenders: William Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia); Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England); Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece); Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague, Czech Republic); Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes FC, France); Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany); Benjamin Fredericks (Dender FC, Belgium)
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England); Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England); Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA); Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas FC, Turkey); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (SS Lazio, Italy); Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium); Christantus Uche (Getafe CF, Spain)
Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta BC, Italy); Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray FC, Turkey); Simon Moses (Paris FC, France); Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Cyriel Dessers (Glasgow Rangers, Scotland); Sadiq Umar (Real Sociedad, Spain); Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany); Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium); Terem Moffi (OGC Nice, France); Adams Akor (Sevilla FC, Spain)
With this strong and well-balanced squad, Nigeria will be aiming to silence their critics and prove that they are still a force to be reckoned with in African football. The upcoming battle against South Africa is not just about points; it is about pride, redemption, and keeping the dream of appearing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup alive.