Super Eagles squad of 24 for WCQ playoff against Gabon

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have announced a 24-man squad for the 2026 World Cup African playoffs against Gabon, with head coach Eric Chelle keeping faith with the players who sealed passage from the qualifying group.

The three-time African champions will face the Panthers in a single-leg semi-final at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco, on Thursday, November 13.

Maduka Okoye makes a return to the national team after serving a two-month suspension from football activities in Italy, which ruled him out of the September and October international windows. The Udinese goalkeeper has been in fine form since returning to club action in late October and is expected to challenge Stanley Nwabali for the starting role. The Chippa United goalkeeper, who has looked uncertain in recent outings, will be keen to reassert himself as Nigeria’s number one.

Super Eagles squad of 24 for WCQ playoff against Gabon — Photo by Icon Sport

Semi Ajayi is also included despite being suspended for the Gabon tie. The defender could return for the playoff final should the Super Eagles advance to face either Cameroon or DR Congo.

Akor Adams, who impressed during the October international window, earns a deserved recall. The Sevilla forward scored against Rwanda in South Africa and was tireless in the 4-0 win over Benin Republic, even without finding the net. Raphael Onyedika also returns after missing last month’s games through injury, while Chidera Ejuke also of Sevilla returns.

Chelle chooses not to gamble with Super Eagles squad

Chelle has opted for stability over experimentation. There had been talk of new faces joining the squad, including 21-year-old Brentford full-back Michael Kayode, who has represented Italy’s U21 side and was said to be open to a switch. Tosin Adarabioyo’s name also came up after indicating his willingness to play for Nigeria, while Ryan Alebiosu was reportedly sounded out.

But Chelle decided against wholesale changes, preferring to stay loyal to the group that has grown under his watch.

The final list reflects a mix of experience and balance. William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Zaidu Sanusi provide leadership and continuity at the back, while Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Frank Onyeka offer structure and control in midfield. The forward line, led by Victor Osimhen with support from Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze, remains the Super Eagles' biggest strength.

Chelle’s approach underlines his belief in consistency and chemistry. With no room for error in a one-leg playoff, he’s chosen players he trusts, men who have handled pressure before and understand the rhythm of knockout football.

Nigeria will face Gabon on November 13, with the winner advancing to the final playoff on November 16.