Nigeria 2026 World Cup qualifiers squad includes Akor Adams’ debut as Chelle’s team prepares for crucial ties against Lesotho and Benin

Nigeria 2026 World Cup qualifiers squad has been officially announced, with head coach Eric Chelle unveiling a 23-man list for the crucial October fixtures against Lesotho and **Benin Republic, as the Super Eagles look to revive their qualification hopes.

Also read: Odumodublvck Slams NFF over Super Eagles World Cup Failure

The big headline is the maiden call-up of Sevilla striker Akor Adams, who joins an attacking lineup led by Victor Osimhen, with Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi, and Cyriel Dessers also named.

Captain William Troost-Ekong returns to anchor the defence, alongside Calvin Bassey, Felix Agu, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali retains his No. 1 spot, backed by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye.

The midfield boasts a blend of creativity and steel with Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and the returning Alhassan Yusuf.

This announcement follows a dramatic twist in Group C of the African qualifiers.

A FIFA disciplinary ruling recently awarded Lesotho a 3–0 victory over South Africa (overturning Bafana Bafana’s 2–0 win in March), stripping South Africa of three vital points.

This has reshuffled the table and given Nigeria a fresh path to qualification.

Group C standings now see South Africa and Benin tied on 14 points, with Nigeria and Rwanda on 11, and Lesotho lifted to 9. Zimbabwe, on 4 points, are already out of contention.

For Nigeria, the stakes could not be higher. A win against Lesotho in Polokwane on October 10 would put them level with the group leaders.

Four days later, they host Benin in Uyo, a match that could be decisive.

Two victories would take the Super Eagles to 17 points, potentially enough for automatic qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico — depending on South Africa’s results.

Nigeria 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

However, should Nigeria finish second, goal difference becomes vital in determining whether they qualify as one of Africa’s best runners-up.

Currently, Nigeria’s +2 goal difference puts them at a disadvantage, making emphatic wins a priority in the final two matches.

Also read: Odumodublvck Slams NFF over Super Eagles World Cup Failure

With a reinvigorated squad and renewed hope, Nigeria must now deliver on the pitch — or risk missing out on consecutive World Cups for the first time in 28 years.