Fakayejo Paul
ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has officially released the 24-man squad list for the critical 2026 FIFA World Cup African Play-Off tournament, set to be held in Morocco later this month.
Headlining the selection is the return of goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and forward Chidera Ejuke, both of whom are recalled to the national team set-up.
The 24-Man Squad Breakdown
The squad, released by coach Eric Chelle, features a strong balance of European-based regulars and key Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) representatives:
- Total Players: 24
- Goalkeepers (3): Nwabali Stanley, Obasogie Amas, Okoye Maduka (Returnee)
- Defenders (8): Ekong William (C), Bassey Calvin, Bright-Osayi Samuel, Onyemaechi Bruno, Ajayi Oluwasemilogo, Chidozie Awaziem, Sanusi Zaidu, Fredricks Benjamin
- Midfielders (5): Iwobi Alexander, Onyeka Frank, Ndidi Wilfred, Onyedika Raphael, Yusuf Alhassan
- Forwards (8): Lookman Ademola, Moses Simon, Osimhen Victor, Arokodare Tolu, Ejuke Chidera, Akor Adams, Olakunle Olusegun, Chukwueze Samuel
Notable Returnees and Key Missions
The inclusion of Maduka Okoye is a significant development.
The Udinese shot-stopper is back in the national fold for the first time since June, following sustained calls for his reinstatement after regaining his starting spot and form in Serie A. Likewise, forward Chidera Ejuke (who last played for Royal Antwerp) earns a call-up, adding pace and trickery to the attack.
The team will be banking on star forward Victor Osimhen to continue his blistering European form as they navigate the winner-takes-all mini-tournament.
The Play-Off Gauntlet in Morocco
The Super Eagles camp is scheduled to open in Rabat, Morocco, on Sunday, November 9, ahead of their crucial matches. The tournament features the four best runners-up from the African qualifying groups vying for one final ticket to the inter-confederation play-offs:
Nigeria’s first challenge will be the semi-final against Gabon. A victory in that match would see them advance to the final to face the winner of the other semi-final between Cameroon and DR Congo for a chance to move closer to the 2026 World Cup.