ABUJA, NIGERIA — Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has named separate squads for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, as well as an international friendly against Russia, as Nigeria steps up preparations for the 2027 continental showpiece.
The squad lists, released on Thursday by the Nigeria Football Federation, include a blend of established stars and emerging talents, with Chelle opting to rotate his squad for the three matches scheduled for the October international window. The Super Eagles will face Madagascar in a crucial AFCON qualifier before taking on Guinea-Bissau in another group fixture, with the friendly against Russia serving as preparation for the qualifiers and an opportunity to test new players.
Full Squad for AFCON Qualifiers
Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho, Adebayo Adeleye
Defenders: William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Zaidu Sanusi, Chidozie Awaziem
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Alhassan Yusuf, Raphael Onyedika, Ibrahim Olawoyin
Forwards: Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Taiwo Awoniyi, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers
Squad for Russia Friendly
Goalkeepers: Amas Obasogie, Nathaniel Nwosu, Kelechi Nwosu
Defenders: Jordan Torunarigha, Kenneth Omeruo, Olisa Ndah, Ismaila Sodiq, Solomon Agbalaka, Daniel Bameyi, Favour Izuogu
Midfielders: Chrisantus Uche, Tochukwu Nnadi, Daniel Daga, Nnamdi Okafor, Anthony Dennis
Forwards: Nathan Tella, Gift Orban, Chidera Ejuke, Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare, Ahmed Musa
Chelle’s Comments
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Chelle explained that the decision to name separate squads was strategic, aimed at managing player workload and giving opportunities to new players. He said the AFCON qualifiers were the priority, but the Russia friendly was equally important for building squad depth and testing new tactical ideas.
“We have a busy schedule, and we need to manage our players carefully. The qualifiers are crucial, and we need our best players for those matches. But the friendly against Russia gives us an opportunity to look at other players and to build depth in the squad,” Chelle stated.
The coach expressed confidence in the squad, noting that the players had been in good form for their clubs and were eager to represent Nigeria. He said the team’s objective was to secure maximum points from the qualifiers and to continue building momentum ahead of the 2027 AFCON.
“We have a talented group of players, and I believe we have what it takes to qualify for the AFCON and to compete at the highest level. Our focus is on the qualifiers, and we will take it one match at a time,” he said.
Player Reactions
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong welcomed the squad selection, noting that the competition for places was healthy for the team. He said the players were motivated to deliver for the country and to make Nigerians proud.
“We have a strong squad, and everyone is ready to give their best. The competition for places is good for the team, and it keeps everyone on their toes. We are focused on getting the job done,” Troost-Ekong said.
Victor Osimhen, who has been in superb form for Galatasaray, expressed his readiness to lead the attack. He said the team was determined to secure qualification for the AFCON and to build on their recent performances.
“We know what is at stake, and we are ready. We want to win our matches and make our fans happy. We will give everything on the pitch,” Osimhen said.
Fixtures
Nigeria will face Madagascar in Antananarivo on October 9, before hosting Guinea-Bissau in Uyo on October 14. The Super Eagles will then travel to Moscow to face Russia in a friendly on October 18.
The Super Eagles currently top their AFCON qualifying group with six points from two matches, and victories against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau would put them in a strong position to secure qualification for the 2027 AFCON in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. For now, the focus is on the task ahead, and Chelle’s squad selection reflects his determination to build a team capable of competing at the highest level.
