Nigeria have named a 24-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup African play-offs in Morocco, with goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and winger Chidera Ejuke making notable returns to the national team. The list, confirmed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Saturday, comes ahead of the Super Eagles’ semi-final clash against Gabon at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat on November 13.
The Super Eagles must overcome Gabon to reach the final three days later, where they could face either Cameroon or DR Congo for a place in the inter-confederation play-offs — a crucial step toward qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in North America. Okoye’s recall marks his first national team appearance since June. The Udinese goalkeeper has regained top form, reclaiming his place as the club’s first-choice shot-stopper after serving a two-month suspension earlier this year. His impressive performances, including a standout display that ended Atalanta’s unbeaten run last weekend, reportedly convinced selectors to bring him back.
In defence, coach Eric Chelle has called up Bright Osayi-Samuel, Chidozie Awaziem, and Semi Ajayi, alongside captain William Troost-Ekong and Fulham’s Calvin Bassey. Osayi-Samuel returns after recovering from a muscle injury that kept him out of the last international window, while Ajayi remains suspended for the semi-final due to accumulated yellow cards. Nantes defender Awaziem also makes a comeback after missing recent fixtures.
The midfield retains its core of Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf, and Alex Iwobi, with Raphael Onyedika returning from a hamstring injury to strengthen the squad. Onyedika’s inclusion adds technical balance and defensive stability, especially with Christantus Uche and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru unavailable. The return of Ejuke, who last featured for Nigeria in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, is expected to boost the team’s creative edge. The Sevilla winger has impressed in La Liga this season with his pace and flair, contributing one assist in eight appearances.
Up front, reigning former Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen headlines the attack alongside Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams, and Olusegun Olakunle. The depth of the forward line gives Chelle several tactical options ahead of the playoffs. However, the exclusion of Trabzonspor’s Paul Onuachu, despite his fine form — seven league goals and a recent Turkish Super Lig Player of the Month award — has sparked debate among fans and analysts.
Also missing from the list is Inter Milan loanee Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, who has impressed with Pisa in Serie A. His omission comes despite strong performances marked by creativity and composure in midfield. For Nigeria, the Rabat tournament represents another opportunity to reclaim global recognition after missing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The mini-tournament in Morocco, featuring Nigeria, Gabon, Cameroon, and DR Congo, will run from November 13 to 16. The winner will advance to the FIFA inter-confederation play-offs — the final hurdle on the road to the 2026 World Cup, to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
