Former Super Eagles coach and current NFF technical director, Austin Eguavoen, has ignited a debate over the composition of Nigeria’s provisional squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Malian tactician Eric Chelle announced a 39-man provisional squad for Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, matches deemed must-win encounters.
The inclusion of Kelechi Iheanacho, whose recent form has been a subject of scrutiny, drew significant criticism from both the press and fans.
Eguavoen would later comment regarding Iheanacho's Super Eagles selection, and in doing so, indirectly fuel speculation about the potential external influence on Chelle’s decisions.
“It’s not fair on Kelechi Iheanacho if Eric Chelle makes a 39-man list and he isn’t involved. If it’s a 23 or 25-man list, that’s fine,” Eguavoen told Brila FM.
Does Iheanacho deserve sacred cow treatment in the Super Eagles?
Iheanacho’s inclusion has been questioned given his lack of impact since Chelle took charge. After a disappointing spell at Sevilla, he moved to Championship side Middlesbrough in January, where his playing time remains inconsistent.
Since joining, he has started only three matches, appeared as a substitute twice, and remained an unused substitute once, contributing neither a goal nor an assist.
Despite this, Iheanacho continues to receive international call-ups, reminiscent of Eguavoen’s tenure when he was included in 2025 AFCON qualifiers despite struggling for club form.
The similarity has fuelled speculation that Eguavoen’s influence has kept the forward in contention, rather than merit-based selection by Chelle.
With Nigeria winless in four World Cup qualifiers (three draws, one loss), these concerns about selection transparency add another layer of scrutiny as the Super Eagles prepare for crucial fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe on March 21 and 25.
