Head Coach Eric Sekou Chelle is intensifying preparations as the Super Eagles get ready for a vital 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against the Crocodiles of Lesotho this Friday in Polokwane, South Africa. The team is steadily reaching full strength, with the second training session on Wednesday expected to feature a total of 20 players.
The squad is coming together with several key arrivals. As of Tuesday night, 18 players were at The Ranch Hotel camp. Portugal-based defender Zaidu Sanusi and Spain-based forward Jerome Akor Adams were scheduled to link up with the team on Wednesday. The final piece of the puzzle, USA-based midfielder Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi, is expected to land in South Africa on Thursday.
Chelle has had to make some adjustments to the initial squad due to injuries, with defender Bright Osayi-Samuel and forward Cyriel Dessers both ruled out. Their places have been filled by the inclusion of Sanusi and Crystal Palace of England’s Christantus Uche. An earlier injury to wing-back Felix Agu had already reduced the initial squad size from 23 to 22.
Unfortunately, the team may be short one player as Russia-based former junior international Olakunle Olusegun is yet to be issued an entry visa into South Africa, meaning Nigeria is likely to prosecute the encounter with 21 players.
Among the returnees is star striker Victor Osimhen, who missed the last fixture against South Africa in Bloemfontein due to injury. Team captain William Ekong also trained with the squad on Tuesday, bringing leadership and experience to the backline.
The crucial Matchday 9 encounter is set to take place at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, on Friday, October 10th, 2025. Kick-off is scheduled for 6 pm South Africa time (5 pm Nigeria time).
Melissa Enoch
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