Under-fire Super Eagles touch down in Polokwane ahead of last-chance World Cup push

The Super Eagles’ base in Polokwane came alive on Tuesday evening as 18 players hit the ground running ahead of Nigeria’s must-win 2026 World Cup qualifier against Lesotho on Friday. Head coach Eric Chelle and his staff had already settled in the previous day, setting the tone for what promises to be a decisive week for the three-time African champions.

By sunset, The Ranch Hotel was buzzing. Fresh faces mixed with familiar ones as the players went through their first full training session at the Peter Mokaba Stadium. Warm-ups flowed into tactical drills, short-passing routines, and finishing work, with Chelle demanding sharpness and focus throughout.

Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen, Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, and Fulham trio Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Samuel Chukwueze were all present, bringing a reassuring dose of experience and quality. The energy was upbeat; handshakes, smiles, and a few jokes, but also an unspoken understanding of the task ahead.

Training begins, 4 more Super Eagles expected

Captain William Troost-Ekong led by example during the session, while Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon, Terem Moffi, and Frank Onyeka looked settled after linking up from their respective clubs.

Much-criticised Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare, Crystal Palace’s Chrisantus Uche, and Hull City’s Semi Ajayi also trained, with Bruno Onyemaechi and goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali, Adebayo Adeleye, and Amas Obasogie completing the day’s roster.

The Eagles have landed in Polokwane ahead of Friday’s clash with Lesotho 🇱🇸.#SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/SFzCaeTOge

— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) October 7, 2025

Brentford youngster Benjamin Frederick who is on loan at FC Dender in Belgium was the latest arrival, checking in late Tuesday night to bring the count to 18. Four more players; Zaidu Sanusi, Alhassan Yusuf, Akor Adams, and Olakunle Olusegun are expected to arrive before Thursday’s final session.

The Super Eagles face an uphill task in their bid to reach the 2026 World Cup. Chelle’s men currently sit third in Group C on 11 points, three behind leaders Benin and South Africa, with only the group winners guaranteed automatic qualification.

Nigeria must first beat Lesotho away on 10 October and then overcome Benin in Uyo four days later to reach 17 points and keep their hopes alive. Anything less will end their qualification dream. Even with maximum points, the three-time African champions will still rely on one of their rivals slipping up.