Chelle Unveils 23-Man Super Eagles Squad Ahead of Crucial October Qualifiers

Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, has published his 23-man squad for the upcoming October 2025 World Cup qualifying matches against Lesotho and Benin Republic. The list features new faces and returns, signaling a resolute push to reclaim momentum in Group C’s intensely competitive race.

Among the most notable selections is the first senior call-up of Sevilla forward Akor Adams, joining a squad anchored by Captain Willian Troost-Ekong. Semi Ajayi, Terem Moffi, Alhassan Yusuf, and Olakunle Olusegun also return to the fold after periods away from national duty. Goalkeeping duties rest with Stanley Nwabali, supported by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye.

The defence comprises a mix of emerging and experienced hands, including Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, Calvin Bassey, Troost-Ekong, and Ajayi. In midfield, the team leans on veterans Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Yusuf to supply balance, creativity, and defensive cover.

Upfront, the attacking unit is formidable: Victor Osimhen leads while being flanked by Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, Olakunle Olusegun, and debutant Adams.

Revived Hopes After Official Ruling

Nigeria’s qualifiers campaign has faced turbulence. The Super Eagles recorded five draws in eight matches, fallow results that had threatened their qualification hopes. However, a ruling by FIFA reversed South Africa’s 2–0 win over Lesotho, awarding Lesotho a 3–0 victory and deducting three points from Bafana Bafana for fielding an ineligible player.

That decision has reshaped Group C’s standings: South Africa and Benin now top with 14 points each, while Nigeria and Rwanda trail at 11 points.The revised tables have injected new life into Nigeria’s prospects. A win over Lesotho in Polokwane on October 10 would bring Nigeria level with the group leaders, setting the stage for a home showdown with Benin four days later.

Victory in both fixtures could lift the Super Eagles to 17 points, potentially securing automatic qualification depending on other results. Even if Chelle’s side falls short of first place, a strong finish could still earn a playoff spot, where goal difference may prove decisive.

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Though the path to qualification remains narrow, the squad selection reflects Chelle’s urgency. By blending experienced leaders with dynamic newcomers, he has positioned the team for one last surge in Group C’s closing stretches. Many eyes will now be cast on whether this squad can convert potential into results when the stakes are highest.