Nigeria have recalled star striker Victor Osimhen for this month’s pivotal 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa, with the Super Eagles’ hopes of automatic qualification hanging by a thread.
Osimhen, who missed the previous international window as Coach Eric Chelle tested fringe players during the Unity Cup and the Russia friendly, returns to the squad alongside Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, and Calvin Bassey.
During Osimhen’s absence, Chelle described his approach as part of a wider rebuilding process.
“We have a lot of talented players in Nigeria, and it is important to give them the chance to prove themselves. We are working on a long-term project to build an identity for the team, and that requires integrating players who can adapt quickly and contribute. The Unity Cup provides a good platform to test new players and tactics as we prepare for upcoming competitions, especially in September,” Chelle explained.
That experimental phase now gives way to urgency as Nigeria’s qualification campaign reaches a critical point.
The Super Eagles sit six points behind Group C leaders South Africa with four matches remaining. Saturday’s home clash with Rwanda in Uyo will be followed by a high-stakes trip to Bloemfontein to face the Bafana Bafana on Tuesday.