Eric Chelle has reportedly dropped six players from the 23-man squad that featured in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers last March.
Nigeria beat Rwanda 2-0 at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, followed by a disappointing draw against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen featured in both matches, scoring three goals after missing the first four qualifiers due to injury.
Chelle takes bold step
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has reportedly axed six players from the 23-man squad that participated in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers last month.
According to Owngoal, the 47-year-old Malian tactician was left unimpressed by several players who failed to meet expectations.
He is now set to release a new squad list for the upcoming Unity Friendly Tournament in England this June per ThisDay.
The turning point came during the match against Zimbabwe, where the Super Eagles failed to maintain a 1-0 lead after Victor Osimhen was substituted, leading to a disappointing draw that broke the camel’s back.
The Nigerian government are in love with Eric Chelle and he's getting all the necessary support.
— Adepoju Tobi Samuel 🇳🇬 (@OgaNlaMedia) April 12, 2025
Sadly, the FIFA World Cup mountain is higher than him. pic.twitter.com/lZTywiOymc
Among those dropped are Jordan Torunarigha and Igho Ogbu, both surprise call-ups in the absence of Leon Balogun and Semi Ajayi. New England Revolution midfielder Alhassan Yusuf, who was converted to a right-back during the qualifiers, has also been left out.
Remo Stars goalkeeper Kayode Bankole, who couldn’t break into the starting lineup, will miss out on the Nigeria Premier Football League slot per Punch.
In midfield, Joe Aribo—despite his strong performances for Southampton—did not feature in either of the two qualifiers and is also expected to be dropped.
Possible replacements
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle is reportedly considering inviting Nigeria-eligible players currently performing abroad, as well as recalling some established names to bolster the squad.
The former Mali boss may bring back capped Super Eagles players such as Nathan Tella, goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, and experienced defender Leon Balogun.
Tension, tactics, and passion—Éric Chelle in action against 🇿🇼. pic.twitter.com/F4XM4HKUMd
— Justina Aniefiok (@Justinaaniefiok) March 30, 2025
Other players said to be on Chelle’s radar include Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Augsburg’s Frank Onyeka, Christantus Uche of Getafe, and Gabe Osho of French Ligue 1 side Auxerre.
Werder Bremen left-back Felix Agu is also in line for a debut after recently pledging his international future to Nigeria per OmaTv.
