Cyriel Dessers has thrust himself back into the Super Eagles conversation with an elite display in the UEFA Europa League, just days after making Nigeria’s provisional squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March.
The Rangers striker, who last featured for Nigeria in March 2024, delivered a statement performance in his side’s 3-1 victory over José Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe.
Dessers scored once and provided an assist, while also seeing another goal ruled out by VAR. His recent form, four goals and an assist in his last three games, makes a compelling case for his inclusion in the Super Eagles' final 23-man squad for the upcoming clashes against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Super Eagles: Which strikers will make the cut for Rwanda, Zimbabwe?
With Nigeria struggling in World Cup qualifying, failing to win any of their first four games and sitting fifth in Group C, there is no room for error.
As such, the upcoming fixtures demand clinical finishing, making Chelle’s selection of forwards crucial.
Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman are guaranteed picks, leaving two or three slots up for grabs.
One is likely reserved for a traditional target man, with Paul Onuachu, Sadiq Umar, and Tolu Arokodare in contention.
That leaves a final spot, which could be a straight battle between Cyriel Dessers and Victor Boniface.
Boniface, who just recovered from injury, has managed just two goals in five games, averaging 36.6 minutes per match as Leverkusen’s third-choice striker. His struggles to replicate club success at the international level further complicate his case.
In contrast, Dessers is peaking at the right time. If Nigeria are to rescue their World Cup qualification hopes, Chelle may have to prioritize form over reputation, a decision that could hand Dessers a long-awaited recall.
