Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, have stepped up preparations ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Rwanda, with training sessions at the Uyo camp reflecting renewed energy and focus. Team captain William Ekong has been leading by example since his arrival on Monday.
Ekong, who plays in Saudi Arabia, joined the camp alongside goalkeeper Amas Obasogie and defenders Bruno Onyemaechi and Felix Agu. Agu, who represents Werder Bremen in Germany, showcased impressive performances at left-back during the Unity Cup Tournament in London over the summer.
Forward Simon Moses, who recently scored and assisted in Paris FC’s weekend league victory, is also in camp, alongside Greece-based goalkeeper Adeleye Adebayo, defenders Chidozie Awaziem and Benjamin Fredericks, and midfielders Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.
Wing-back Olaoluwa Aina, defenders Bright Osayi-Samuel and Calvin Bassey, and midfielder Alex Iwobi have also joined the squad, completing key defensive and midfield options. First-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, returning to training after a recent injury scare, is expected to join on Tuesday evening.
Further reinforcements include midfielder Christantus Uche, who recently transferred to Crystal Palace from Getafe, and forwards Samuel Chukwueze, now with Fulham FC, Tolu Arokodare of Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Cyriel Dessers of Panathinaikos.
African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman, Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen, and midfielder Raphael Onyedika are also anticipated to arrive ahead of the match.
The 23-man squad will also face South Africa in Matchday 8 of the qualifying series, scheduled for Tuesday evening at the Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, also known as Free State Stadium.
The arrival of these international-based players signals the team’s intent to blend experience with emerging talent, as Nigeria seeks to strengthen its campaign for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
