Nigeria’s coach Eric Chelle has changed his 23-man Super Eagles squad ahead of the decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has made a key adjustment to his 23-man squad ahead of the critical 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Forward Nathan Tella, who plays for Bayer Leverkusen, has been ruled out due to an injury and will miss the upcoming fixtures.
)
Toluwase Arokodare’s picture from the Nigerian youth team has gone viral after the Belgian-based striker was rewarded with his first-ever invitation to Nigeria Super Eagles by new coach Eric Chelle.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Soccer News in Nigeria from Pulse Sports
)
Nigerian players Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella were unable to stop the mighty Bayern Munich train from steamrolling Bayer Leverkusen
In response to Tella’s absence, coach Chelle has called up defender Jordan Torunarigha as a replacement. The team announced the change on Thursday morning, wishing Tella a speedy recovery.
“Jordan Torunarigha has been called to replace injured Nathan Tella. We wish Nathan quick recovery,” the team posted on their X account.
)
Nathan Tella will stay at Leverkusen || Imago
This adjustment comes as Nigeria prepares for two must-win matches to revive the team’s 2026 FIFA World Cup dreams.
The Super Eagles are currently struggling in their qualifying group, sitting fifth behind Rwanda, South Africa, Benin Republic, and Lesotho.
)
Jordan Torunarigha earns a recall to the team. (Photo Credit: Torunarigha/Instagram)
The matches against Rwanda on March 21 and Zimbabwe on March 25 are important for Nigeria’s hopes of advancing to the World Cup in 2026.
Coach Chelle, who took over the team in January, has been working to revitalise the squad’s performance after a slow start in the qualifying campaign.
)
Eric Chelle will play his first game against Rwanda.
The inclusion of Torunarigha adds depth to the defensive lineup, which already features notable players like William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and new boy, Igoh Ogbu, but was considered thin.
The Super Eagles will face significant challenges in the upcoming matches, but with strategic adjustments and a mix of experienced and new talent, they hope to secure vital wins and improve their chances of reaching the World Cup.
