Eric Chelle, coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, has announced a provisional squad to prepare for World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. The roster includes seasoned players and new faces to enhance competition. Analysts and fans express support for such strategies aimed at improving team dynamics and performance. The matches represent Chelle’s debut as head coach, and Nigeria hopes to qualify despite currently being fifth in their group.
Eric Chelle, the coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, is focused on securing a spot for the team in the 2026 World Cup. To enhance the squad for upcoming matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, he has selected a provisional list of fit and in-form players. Notable inclusions are Jerome Akor from Sevilla, Cyriel Dessers of Rangers, Nathan Tella from Bayer Leverkusen, and defender Igoh Ogbu from Slavia Prague, replacing injured player Semi Ajayi.
The invitation also includes a core group of players who played a significant role in Nigeria’s recent qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The selected players comprise goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye; defenders like William Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Zaidu Sanusi; midfielders including Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi; and forwards such as Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. Additionally, home-based goalkeeper Kayode Bankole and defender Jordan Torunarigha have also been called up.
Sport analyst Philip Adefio commended Chelle’s approach, emphasizing that maintaining experienced players while introducing new talent enhances team competitiveness. He also stated that this strategy allows the existing core to provide stability as they prepare for challenging matches. Adefio remarked, “Bringing in players such as Igoh Ogbu, Cyriel Dessers…will enthrone competitiveness in the team.”
Football fan Friday Erhabor supported adding new players, arguing that it dispels any sense of entitlement among returning players, which could affect performance. He remains optimistic about Nigeria’s chances for qualification, citing past examples where the Super Eagles performed best under pressure. Meanwhile, Chima Nwosu pointed out that while the provisional list is extensive, it offers Chelle a chance to evaluate his options effectively before finalizing the 23-man squad.
Nigeria currently stands fifth in Group C behind Rwanda, South Africa, Benin Republic, and Lesotho. The Super Eagles will first face Rwanda in Kigali on March 21, followed by Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on March 24. These matches mark Eric Chelle’s debut as head coach of Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team.
Eric Chelle’s strategic player selection aims to strengthen Nigeria’s Super Eagles ahead of vital World Cup qualifying matches. With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, the team is being positioned for competitiveness and optimal performance. As the team prepares for challenges against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, there is optimism surrounding their capability to qualify despite current standings. The upcoming matches will reveal the effectiveness of Chelle’s approach as he takes on his first role as head coach.
Original Source: businessday.ng
