The Super Eagles will conclude their campaign for a place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with two games against Benin and Rwanda later this month.
After the disappointing events surrounding the return fixture against Libya last month, the team is eager to get back on the pitch and play international football.
The Super Eagles will face the Cheetahs of Benin at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan on 14 October and then return to Nigeria for their final game against Rwanda’s Amavubi at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
On Wednesday, interim Super Eagles coach Austin Eguavoen released a 23-man squad to prosecute these matches, with a few surprises in the selection.
The squad includes three goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders, and seven forwards, as they aim to consolidate their lead in Group D.
The roster features a mix of returnees and debutants, adding new depth to the team.
Here is a rundown of those returning to the team and those receiving their maiden call-ups.
Gabriel Osho (Auxerre – France)
The defender receives his second invitation to the Super Eagles after his first call-up in March, which was disrupted by injury.
At that time, he was playing for Luton Town in the Premier League.
Following Luton’s relegation, Osho moved to French side Auxerre, where he has become a regular fixture, mainly at centre-back, though he predominantly played right-back during his time in England.
Osho has featured in eight out of Auxerre’s ten Ligue 1 games this season and will be hoping to make his Nigeria debut this time around.
Victor Collins (Nasarawa United – Nigeria)
A tall and commanding centre-back, Collins has been one of the standout defenders in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
Recently, he was called up to the Super Eagles’ B team (the CHAN team).
Currently, on loan at Nasarawa United from Remo Stars, Collins has consistently impressed for the Lafia side.
As a left-footed centre-back—a rare profile in modern football—Collins is solid in aerial duels and possesses a strong header.
Although he is still refining certain aspects of his game, his robust defensive style has earned him a spot as the only outfield NPFL player in this latest call-up.
He will be looking to make a strong impression to secure future invitations.
Umar Sadiq (Real Sociedad – Spain)
Real Sociedad striker Umar Sadiq makes a return to the squad, taking over the role of Taiwo Awoniyi, who is out of the team.
Sadiq’s selection came as a surprise to many, as he has only played six La Liga games this season without scoring.
Speculation initially pointed to Genk’s Tolu Arokodare, who has been prolific with eight goals in 13 Belgian league appearances and plays similarly to Sadiq, as a potential choice.
There were also rumours that Rangers’ forward Cyriel Dessers might receive a call-up due to his scoring form in Scotland, but ultimately, these did not materialise.
This opportunity provides Sadiq with a platform to prove himself to the Super Eagles’ coaching staff and show he deserves a regular place in the squad.
