Super Eagles Camp Fills Up as 18 Players Arrive in Polokwane Ahead of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are gradually assembling a strong squad in Polokwane, South Africa, ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Lesotho and Benin Republic.
According to an update shared on the Super Eagles’ official X (Twitter) account on Tuesday night, 18 players have already arrived at camp, with five more expected before their opening game against Lesotho on Friday.
The team opened camp on Monday, and their first official training session took place on Tuesday night under head coach Eric Chelle.
The players currently in camp include:
Benjamin Fredrick, Samuel Chukwueze, Frank Onyeka, Tolu Arokodare, Semi Ajayi, Stanley Nwabali, Adebayo Adeleye, Amas Obasogie, William Troost-Ekong, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Chrisantus Uche, Wilfred Ndidi, Bruno Onyemaechi, Terem Moffi, Moses Simon, Calvin Bassey, and Alex Iwobi.
The squad is expected to be complete before Thursday as preparations intensify for the must-win encounter.
🇳🇬 Opinion: The Super Eagles’ Journey to Redemption Begins Here
There’s something special about the atmosphere surrounding the Super Eagles’ camp this time — a quiet sense of urgency and determination. After missing out on the 2022 World Cup, every player knows what’s at stake: this is not just another qualifying series; it’s a mission to restore pride.
The squad list itself speaks volumes. Experience meets youth — Osimhen, Ndidi, Simon, and Troost-Ekong bring leadership and grit, while the likes of Arokodare, Fredrick, and Obasogie represent Nigeria’s next generation hungry to prove themselves. It’s a refreshing blend of continuity and promise.
What’s most encouraging is the early arrival of key players — something that’s often been a challenge in past qualifiers. It shows commitment and a renewed belief in Chelle’s leadership, even as he faces early scrutiny in his tenure.
Still, the challenge is real. Lesotho may be underdogs, but football in Africa has no easy games anymore — and with Benin Republic waiting next, led by former Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr, the drama practically writes itself.
If the Eagles can start strong, maintain discipline, and rediscover their attacking sharpness, this campaign could mark the start of a new era — one driven not by star names alone, but by collective hunger.
Because this time, it’s not just about qualifying — it’s about proving that Nigeria belongs back among the world’s best. 🦅🇳🇬
