Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has announced his final 23-man squad to face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers later this month.
The announcement came on Tuesday, following a week of speculation after the coach initially released a 39-man provisional list.
Nigeria are looking to revive its World Cup qualification hopes with a strong performance in these crucial matches.
While the final squad revelation included a few surprises, here are the top three shocks.
Igoh Ogbu chosen over Gabriel Osho
Slavia Prague centre-back Igoh Ogbu has been selected as one of the centre-backs in the absence of the injured Semi Ajayi, edging out Auxerre’s Gabriel Osho.
Osho made his debut for the Super Eagles last year and has had a commendable season in Ligue 1. However, Chelle has opted for the 25-year-old Ogbu, who earns his maiden call-up.
Ogbu, a former Flying Eagles star, has been recognized as one of Nigeria’s bright young defenders and will now have the opportunity to prove himself with the Nigeria national team.
Papa Daniel included, Frank Onyeka excluded
In a surprising midfield decision, Papa Daniel has been included in the squad at the expense of Frank Onyeka.
Daniel has been a standout performer in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) this season and played a pivotal role in helping the Super Eagles B team qualify for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament.
His performances must have caught the eye of Chelle, who has now included the Niger Tornadoes player in his team.
Onyeka, despite having a brilliant season with Augsburg in the Bundesliga, misses out on this occasion.
Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa left out
The exclusion of team captain Ahmed Musa from the final squad came as a surprise to many.
Musa's inclusion in the Super Eagles provisional list was seen as a move to bring his off-field leadership and experience to the team.
Chelle had even travelled to Kano to watch him and Kano Pillars play in the NPFL, meeting with the 32-year-old after the game.
However, the final cut saw Musa omitted, indicating a focus on younger players and fresh talent for the qualifiers.
