Osimhen, Tolu Spearheads Attack As Okoye Returns For 2026 WCQ Playoffs

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has unveiled a 24-man squad for Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash against Gabon, with Victor Osimhen and Tolu Arokodare spearheading the attack and goalkeeper Maduka Okoye making a return.

The squad also sees the comeback of several players who missed the October international window, including defenders Bright Osayi-Samuel and Chidozie Awaziem, midfielder Raphael Onyedika, and Chidera Ejuke of Sevilla.

Nigeria remains in contention for a World Cup ticket after finishing second in Group C of the African qualifiers, progressing as one of the best runners-up.

The Super Eagles will face the Panthers of Gabon in the first semi-final on Thursday, November 13, at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat, Morocco.

The winner will battle either Cameroon or the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final on Sunday, November 16, at the same venue.

Full list
Goalkeepers

Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye and Amas Obasogie

Defenders

Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, Calvin Bassey, Zaidu Sanusi, Bruno Onyemaechi, Semi Ajayi, Chidozie Awaziem, and William Ekong

Midfielders

Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika, Frank Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf.