Injuries to Cyriel Dessers and Bright Osayi-Samuel prompt late squad changes.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has revised Nigeria’s 23-man squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers after injuries sidelined Cyriel Dessers and Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Zaidu Sanusi has been recalled to replace Osayi-Samuel, while forward Uche Christantus comes in for Dessers. Sanusi, who was key to Nigeria’s run to the Africa Cup of Nations final, makes his return after over a year out with injury. His inclusion is expected to bolster the Super Eagles’ backline.
Christantus, part of Nigeria’s emerging generation, debuted in June and will look to seize the opportunity to establish himself.
Concerns remain over Werder Bremen’s Felix Agu, who sustained a knock in a Bundesliga fixture. His fitness will be assessed before the Lesotho game.
Chelle’s updated roster blends experienced internationals with fresh faces as Nigeria targets maximum points. The Eagles face Lesotho on October 10 and Benin Republic in Cotonou on October 14 in must-win qualifiers.