Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has unveiled a 24-man squad for Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea Bissau, with captain Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Osimhen and reigning African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman among the headline names.
Nigeria will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to Bissau to take on Guinea Bissau on September 29 in their second qualifying fixture.
The squad combines experienced internationals and emerging talents as Chelle begins preparations for the crucial qualifying campaign.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, defender Semi Ajayi, midfielder Alex Iwobi and winger Moses Simon are among the established stars retained in the team. Chelle also called up goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, defenders Calvin Bassey and Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielders Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika, as well as forwards Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams and Tolu Arokodare.
Defenders Ola Aina and Benjamin Fredricks return to the squad, while goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo and defender Chibuike Nwaiwu, who impressed during the Unity Cup, have earned another opportunity to prove themselves at international level.
One of the notable inclusions is Portugal-based defender Isaac James, who received his maiden Super Eagles invitation. Young forwards George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor have also been handed call-ups as Chelle looks to inject fresh talent into the national team.
For the qualifying matches, Chelle selected Arthur Okonkwo, Maduka Okoye and Stanley Nwabali as his goalkeepers.
The defensive lineup comprises Bruno Onyemaechi, Isaac James, Benjamin Fredricks, Emmanuel Fernandez, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Ola Aina.
In midfield, Ndidi, Iwobi, Onyedika and Onyeka will be expected to provide stability and creativity, while the attacking unit features Simon, Osimhen, Adams, Chukwueze, Lookman, Arokodare, Ilenikhena and Usor.
The squad reflects Chelle’s blend of experience and youth as the Super Eagles seek a strong start to their campaign for a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. With key stars available and several new faces eager to impress, Nigeria will be aiming to secure maximum points from the two fixtures.
