Ekong, Osimhen lead Nigeria’s squad for October World Cup Qualifiers (Full List)

Nigeria has unveiled a 23-man squad for October’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Lesotho and Benin, with head coach Eric Chelle giving Sevilla striker Akor Adams his first senior call-up.

Captain William Troost-Ekong headlines the squad, while Semi Ajayi, Terem Moffi, Alhassan Yusuf, and Olakunle Olusegun return after absences. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali retains his spot as first choice, with Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye providing backup.

Defensive options include Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, and Calvin Bassey.

In midfield, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf bring balance and experience.

The attack is led by Victor Osimhen and features Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, the returning Olakunle Olusegun, and debutant Adams.

The qualifiers come at a crucial stage in Group C. Nigeria’s campaign, previously in doubt after five draws in eight matches, has been revived by FIFA’s sanction against South Africa.

The ruling overturned Bafana Bafana’s 2–0 win over Lesotho in March, awarding a 3–0 victory to the Crocodiles and stripping South Africa of three points.

As it stands, Benin and South Africa lead with 14 points each, Nigeria and Rwanda follow on 11, while Lesotho sit on nine. Zimbabwe remain bottom with four points and are already out.

For the Super Eagles, the path is now clearer. A win over Lesotho in Polokwane on October 10 would put them level with the leaders, ahead of their decisive clash with Benin in Uyo four days later.

Victories in both matches could see them finish on 17automat, potentially enough for automatic qualification, depending on South Africa’s results in Durban and Mbombela.

If they fall short, Nigeria could still advance as one of Africa’s four best runners-up, though their current goal difference of plus two means they will likely need convincing wins to strengthen their case for a place at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.