Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has unveiled his final 23-man roster to tackle the critical 2026 World Cup qualifier matches against Rwanda and South Africa scheduled for next month.
The announcement has since stirred intense debates among fans and pundits across Nigeria.
Chelle’s Squad Revealed: Shock Omissions Spark Outrage
Chelle’s list features familiar names but also conspicuous absences that raise eyebrows.
Notably, Bayer Leverkusen duo Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella were dropped.
Both have been influential in their club performances but were overlooked, leaving many questioning the selection criteria.
Similarly, Sadiq Umar of Real Sociedad, a player in consistent form, was excluded entirely another baffling decision that fans and analysts have likened to a grave miscalculation.
These omissions have fueled calls for transparency and accountability in team selection.
Squad Composition: Who Made the Cut?
The roster includes seasoned goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards some expected, others arguably reluctantly picked.
Goalkeepers:
- Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)
- Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania)
- Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC, Greece)
Defenders:
- William Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia)
- Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England)
- Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England)
- Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England)
- Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece)
- Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes FC, France)
- Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany)
- Benjamin Fredericks (Dender FC, Belgium)
Midfielders:
- Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England)
- Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England)
- Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas FC, Turkey)
- Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (SS Lazio, Italy)
- Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium)
- Christantus Uche (Getafe CF, Spain)
Forwards:
- Ademola Lookman (Atalanta BC, Italy)
- Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy)
- Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray FC, Turkey)
- Simon Moses (Paris FC, France)
- Cyriel Dessers (Glasgow Rangers, Scotland)
- Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium)
Experience Retained But Innovation Lacking
While several veterans were rightly included, the squad appears to lack fresh, innovative choices that Nigeria desperately needs to shake off its recent stagnation on the international stage.
The persistence in selecting certain players despite their declining form is controversial.
For example, some forwards and midfielders seem to have made the cut more due to reputation than current performance.
This conservative approach could cost Nigeria dearly in decisive matches where tactical flexibility and vigor are essential.
Questionable Strategic Direction?
Critics argue that Chelle’s selection signals a broader problem within the Super Eagles’ management.
The continued reliance on European-based players who are struggling for club game time contrasts sharply with the exclusion of in-form talents from less glamorous leagues.
Moreover, the failure to integrate emerging stars reflects a reluctance to adapt to modern football dynamics.
This shortsightedness risks Nigeria’s qualification hopes, especially against tactically disciplined opponents like South Africa, who have shown steady growth in recent years.
Fan Backlash and Media Criticism
Social media platforms erupted following the squad announcement, with many fans expressing disappointment and anger.
The hashtag #BringBackBoniface trended nationally for hours as supporters questioned the rationale behind leaving out such pivotal players.
Sports analysts have not been shy in their critique either.
Some have labeled the list as “a missed opportunity” and cautioned that Nigeria’s World Cup dream might hang by a thread if this team lacks cohesion and tactical acumen.
Looking Ahead: Can the Super Eagles Deliver?
The Super Eagles must overcome not only their opponents but also the widespread skepticism surrounding their preparation.
Failure to progress would intensify calls for sweeping changes within Nigeria’s football administration and coaching staff.
Meanwhile, supporters remain hopeful that the players named can silence critics through resilience and determination on the pitch.
