Momentum is building in Uyo as 13 Super Eagles players have now checked into camp ahead of Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.
Captain William Troost-Ekong, goalkeeper Amas Obasogie, defender Felix Agu, and midfielder Raphael Onyedika were among the first to arrive when the camp officially opened on Monday at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel. Their early arrival set the tone for what promises to be an intense build-up to the doubleheader.
By Tuesday morning, nine more stars joined the fold, including midfield maestro Alex Iwobi, versatile defender Calvin Bassey, and the highly rated Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Defensive stalwarts Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel also checked in, further boosting the squad’s defensive options.
The attack is beginning to take shape too, with Moses Simon bringing his trademark pace and trickery, while Chiedozie Awaziem adds depth at the back. Goalkeeper Adebayo Adeleye and rising youngster Benjamin Fredericks also linked up with the team, raising the current tally to 13.
Ten more players are expected to join before the end of Tuesday as head coach Eric Chelle looks to get his full 23-man squad together. The blend of experienced internationals and fresh faces is expected to give Nigeria tactical flexibility in what is shaping up to be a high-stakes qualifying window.
The team will have its first official training session tonight at the practice pitch of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, the venue that will host South Africa in what many fans have already dubbed a “must-win encounter.” Nigeria currently sits under pressure to deliver results after a stuttering start to the qualifiers.
All eyes will be on the coaching staff’s tactical setup, player sharpness, and the squad’s ability to gel quickly. With the Rwanda clash away and the home game against South Africa in Uyo, the Super Eagles know that anything short of maximum points could complicate their path to the 2026 World Cup in North America.
