Anthony Nlebem
2026 World Cup Play-off: Chelle names strong Super Eagles squad for Gabon cracker
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has unveiled a strong 24-man squad for Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup African Play-off clash against Gabon in Rabat, Morocco.
The list features team captain William Troost-Ekong, star striker Victor Osimhen, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, and defenders Bright Osayi-Samuel and Calvin Bassey.
Also included are midfielders Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi, alongside attacking talents Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze.
Read Also: Explained: How Nigeria can qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Chelle has handed recalls to goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and Spain-based winger Chidera Ejuke, while young stars Raphael Onyedika, Tolu Arokodare, Jerome Akor Adams, and Olusegun Olakunle are also named in the squad. Rising teenage defender Benjamin Fredericks earns another call-up after impressing in recent fixtures.
However, defender Oluwasemilogo Ajayi will miss the match due to suspension after accumulating two yellow cards during the qualifiers.
Nigeria will face Gabon in the first semi-final at the 22,000-capacity Complexe Sportif Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan on Thursday. At the same time, Cameroon take on the DR Congo in the other tie at the El-Barid Stadium, also in Rabat.
The players are expected to arrive in Morocco from their various club bases on Monday, November 10, as preparations begin for the crucial playoff clash.
Anthony Nlebem
Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.
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