Finidi George has announced a 23-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers
The newly-appointed Super Eagles coach seeks victory over South Africa and Benin
The Nigeria squad features a balance of experienced players and rising youngsters

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Newly-appointed Super Eagles head coach, Finidi George, has announced a 23-player squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

The roster features a mix of experienced veterans and rising youngsters as the West African nation looks to secure its spot on the global stage.

The squad boasts several standout performers from the recent 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), including the likes of Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

Nigeria players ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final against Ivory Coast at Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, on February 11, 2024. Photo: Yvan Gabon. — Nigeria players pose for a team photo ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final vs Ivory Coast at Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, on February 11, 2024. Photo: Yvan Gabon.
Source: Getty Images

The players will lead the charge as the Super Eagles battle it out against South Africa and Benin Republic in the quest for World Cup qualification.

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However, the team will be without the services of two key figures. Per Soccernet, Captain Ahmed Musa and vice-captain William Troost-Ekong, both of whom played crucial roles for Nigeria at the AFCON tournament, are still out injured.

Udinese FC goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, has returned to the squad following an impressive run form in the Serie A. Bundesliga Rookie of the Year, Victor Boniface, who missed the AFCON, will provide a fresh injection of energy and talent to the attack.

The defensive line is also well-represented, with the likes of Fulham's Calvin Bassey and West Brom's Semi Ajayi selected. The midfield boasts the experience of Leicester's Wilfred Ndidi, Fulham's Alex Iwobi, and Royal Antwerp's Alhassan Yusuf. Up front, the team will rely on the goal-scoring prowess of Kelechi Iheanacho, Victor Boniface, and Terem Moffi and the highly-sought Osimhen.

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The squad also features a first-time call-up for Remo Stars' defender Sadiq Ismael, as well as the in-form Paul Onuachu, who has been lighting up the Turkish league with Trabzonspor.

Per All Africa, the Super Eagles will commence their World Cup qualifying journey on Friday, June 7, as they host South Africa at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. On Monday, June 10, they will travel to Abidjan to take on Benin Republic at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny.