The Super Eagles of Nigeria are gearing up for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with key players like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Ola Aina set to make their debut under new coach Eric Chelle. Appointed in January to replace Augustine Eguavoen, Chelle's first challenge will come this week as Nigeria faces Rwanda on March 21 and Zimbabwe on March 25.
Having released his final 23-man squad, Eric Chelle includes Osimhen, Lookman, and Aina among the talent he believes can turn Nigeria's fortunes around. Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray, boasts an impressive record of 26 goals and five assists in 30 appearances this season. Lookman, playing for Atalanta, mirrors his club success with 19 goals and seven assists in 31 games, while Aina has contributed two goals and one assist for Nottingham Forest over 33 matches.
Analyst Saheed Afolabi emphasized the significance of these players, stating, “Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman will have a huge impact on the Super Eagles under Chelle in the World Cup qualifiers because they are in good form and if you look at their recent statistics for their clubs, you will see that they are in very good shape.” Afolabi, however, expressed concerns about the midfielders, suggesting, “my major problem is the midfielders getting themselves together.” This sentiment reflects apprehension about whether the midfield can effectively support the attacking players.
The squad recognized the urgency of their campaign, pulling together on March 18 when 21 players reported to the training camp in Kigali, Rwanda. Alhassan Yusuf and Sadiq Umar were the final two players yet to arrive at this time. Among those already in camp were nine players, including team captain William Ekong. Their first training session was scheduled for the afternoon of March 18, just days before the vital match against Rwanda.
With the match against Rwanda approaching, the excitement in the camp is palpable. Head coach Eric Chelle welcomes the latest additions, which include familiar names such as Ademola Lookman, Wilfred Ndidi, Ola Aina, and Alex Iwobi. The collective experience and skill of these players are expected to raise the standard of the team's performance.
Chelle's appointment comes with a history of success, but as critics point out, transitioning from club football to international competition presents unique challenges. Adaptation to new tactics will be vital. As Afolabi noted, the players are untested under Chelle’s philosophy, heightening the importance of quick adaptation during their short training time together.
Although Chelle's tactics remain relatively unknown, the returning players are expected to build on their existing chemistry. For instance, Osimhen, Lookman, and Ndidi have played together successfully in the past, and fans are hoping that their club form translates onto the international stage.
The first official game will take place at Stade Amahoro in Kigali against Rwanda's Amavubi, a team that currently leads Group C. The significance of this match cannot be overstated, as Nigeria needs a strong performance to effectively launch their World Cup qualifying journey.
In a few days, the team will then head to Uyo for another crucial encounter against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on March 25. With both games scheduled for 5:00 PM WAT, the Super Eagles aim to secure victory in front of their fans.
As the squad assembles, expectations are high, and supporters are excited about the prospect of seeing these key players in action under new leadership. The historical weight of Nigeria’s footballing heritage adds to the pressure, but it also transforms each match into an opportunity for greatness.
In summary, with Eric Chelle at the helm and key players in form, the Super Eagles are set to compete fiercely. As they embrace the challenges that lie ahead and hone their team synergy, the outcome of their matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe will be pivotal for their World Cup campaign.
