Fakayejo Paul
RABAT, MOROCCO – The Super Eagles camp is now in full swing in Rabat, Morocco, but two of Nigeria’s key players—striker Victor Osimhen and goalkeeper Maduka Okoye—are yet to join the main squad, raising concern just two days before their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Play-Off semi-final against Gabon.
Star Duo Granted Late Arrival Permission
As of this morning (Tuesday, November 11), the Super Eagles camp boasts 18 players participating in training sessions, including key players like Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Captain William Troost-Ekong.
However, Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey) and Maduka Okoye (Udinese, Italy) are the most notable absentees, alongside midfielder Yusuf Alhassan (New England Revolution, USA).
- Reason for Delay: According to team sources, the trio has been granted permission by Head Coach Eric Chelle for a delayed arrival due to demanding club schedules that concluded their weekend fixtures late on Sunday.
- Expected Arrival: All three players are expected to arrive in camp later today (Tuesday morning).
Coach Chelle is anticipated to have the full complement of his 24-man squad for the team’s second training session later this afternoon, providing a tight but adequate window for preparation.
Nigeria’s opening match against Gabon is just two days away, emphasizing the urgency for the star players to quickly integrate and participate in tactical drills.
The winner of the tournament will advance to the intercontinental play-offs for a final chance at World Cup qualification.
