The Nigeria Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has announced a 39-man provisional squad ahead of the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. Among the invited players are three standout stars from the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL)—a move that signals a fresh approach toward recognizing homegrown talent.
The squad, which will be trimmed down to 23 players before the matches, features a blend of seasoned internationals and new faces, with the inclusion of Ahmed Musa, who makes a return to the national team.
NPFL Stars Earn Super Eagles Call-Up
Chelle’s squad selection includes Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Enugu Rangers) and Papa Daniel (Niger Tornadoes), both of whom impressed during a recent test game between the CHAN Eagles and NPFL side Sunshine Stars in Ikenne. The third NPFL player—a goalkeeper—was a surprise pick, largely influenced by the current goalkeeping crisis facing the national team.
With Maduka Okoye (Udinese) recovering from surgery, and both Francis Uzoho and Olorunleke Ojo unavailable due to injuries and contract issues, Chelle has opted to give local-based players a chance to prove their worth on the international stage.
A Bold Step Towards Strengthening the NPFL
For years, debates have raged over the lack of opportunities for home-based players in the Super Eagles squad. Chelle’s decision to include three NPFL stars could mark the beginning of a new era—one where domestic league players get the exposure they need to compete with their foreign-based counterparts.
This selection not only boosts the confidence of NPFL players but also sends a strong message about the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s domestic league. With more scouting, better facilities, and continued exposure to international football, the NPFL could soon become a major breeding ground for future Super Eagles stars.
Can These NPFL Players Step Up?
The big question remains—can these NPFL stars transition seamlessly from local competitions to the intensity of World Cup qualifiers?
Talent is undeniable, but experience and exposure to high-level football often make the difference. With the right coaching, support, and team chemistry, Onyebuchi, Papa Daniel, and the selected NPFL goalkeeper have the chance to prove their worth and possibly cement their places in future call-ups.
Full Super Eagles 39-Man Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers:
- Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)
- Maduka Okoye (Udinese, Italy)
- Amas Obasogie (Singida Black Stars, Tanzania)
- Adeleye Adebayo (Enosis Neon Paralimni, Cyprus)
- Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars, Nigeria)
Defenders:
- William Ekong (Al Khalood, Saudi Arabia)
- Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce, Turkey)
- Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos, Greece)
- Gabriel Osho (AJ Auxerre, France)
- Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England)
- Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest, England)
- Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Portugal)
- Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague, Czech Republic)
- Jordan Torunarigha (Gent, Belgium)
- Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Enugu Rangers, Nigeria)
Midfielders:
- Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes, Nigeria)
- Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England)
- Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium)
- Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England, USA)
- Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (SS Lazio, Italy)
- Frank Onyeka (Augsburg, Germany)
- Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England)
- Joseph Ayodele-Aribo (Southampton, England)
- Anthony Dennis (Goztepe, Turkey)
- Christantus Uche (Getafe, Spain)
Forwards:
- Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy)
- Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey)
- Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy)
- Kelechi Iheanacho (Middlesbrough, England)
- Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)
- Moses Simon (Nantes, France)
- Sadiq Umar (Valencia, Spain)
- Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)
- Cyriel Dessers (Glasgow Rangers, Scotland)
- Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium)
- Chidera Ejuke (Sevilla, Spain)
- Paul Onuachu (Southampton, England)
- Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars, Nigeria)
- Akor Adams (Sevilla, Spain)
Super Eagles’ Road to the 2026 World Cup
The Super Eagles will face Rwanda on March 21 and Zimbabwe on March 25 in two crucial qualifiers. With a mix of established stars and promising newcomers, the team will be aiming for maximum points to boost their World Cup qualification chances.
Chelle’s squad selection will be under scrutiny, but if these new faces—including the NPFL trio—rise to the occasion, it could open doors for more home-based talents in future national team selections.
Will the NPFL stars grab their chance and impress on the international stage? We’ll find out soon!
