Eric Chelle has begun preparations for Nigeria’s crucial CAF World Cup playoff with Eight players already in camp in Rabat, Morocco.
The early arrivals include Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare, Olakunle Olusegun, Wilfred Ndidi, William Troost-Ekong, and Moses Simon.
According to camp sources Benjamin Fredericks and Chidozie Awaziem are expected on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen, who played for Galatasaray in a 1–0 loss to Kocaelispor earlier today in the Turkish Super Lig, is expected to join the team tomorrow.
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His arrival will further boost the camp’s morale as preparations intensify for the must-win encounter.
A victory against Gabon will secure their spot in the final round of the CAF playoffs, where they could face either Cameroon or DR Congo for a place in the FIFA Intercontinental Playoffs.
The team understands the stakes and the weight of national expectation as they aim to return to the World Cup after missing out in 2022.
Head coach Eric Chelle has the chance to make history by leading Nigeria back to the world stage, which will mean him appearing at the World Cup for the first time in his career.
Chelle’s 24-man squad
There were a few notable absentees from the list of invitees, including Paul Onuachu, who has scored eight goals in twelve league appearances.
However, the squad also sees the return of Bright Osayi-Samuel, who has recovered from injury.
Chidozie Awaziem and Chidera Ejuke also got recalls.
Full Squad List
Goalkeepers:
Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, Maduka Okoye
Defenders:
William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Bruno Onyemaechi, Chidozie Awaziem, Zaidu Sanusi, Benjamin Fredericks
Midfielders:
Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf, Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika
Forwards:
Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen, Simon Moses, Chidera Ejuke, Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams, Olakunle Olusegun
Nigeria’s semi-final clash against Gabon will be played on Thursday, 13th November.
