Nigeria’s hopes of reigniting their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign have received a major boost with the return of star striker, Victor Osimhen, who headlines the 23-man squad named by Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle for this month’s crucial double-header against Lesotho and Benin Republic.
Osimhen, who missed the match against South Africa through injury, is back to lead the attack as Nigeria seeks to climb from third place in Group C, trailing leaders Benin Republic and second-placed South Africa by just three points.
The former African Footballer of the Year, now playing for Galatasaray FC in Turkey, is expected to bring firepower and leadership to a forward line that struggled for precision in his absence.
His return comes at a critical juncture for the Super Eagles, who must take maximum points from the upcoming fixtures to revive their qualification chances.
In the last eight World Cup qualifying matches, he has played just three, against Rwanda (twice) and Zimbabwe once. It is expected that Osimhen’s inclusion, alongside other experienced campaigners, will make a difference.
Also back in the squad are defender Semi Ajayi, who returns from injury, and France-based striker Terem Moffi, while Russia-based winger Olakunle Olusegun is recalled after a spell out.
The team retains a solid core with William Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Bright Osayi-Samuel in defence; Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi anchoring the midfield; and Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Moses Simon offering attacking width.
Nigeria will face the Likuena (Crocodiles) of Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa, on Friday, 10 October, before returning home to Uyo for a fiery Matchday 10 clash against table-toppers Benin Republic on Tuesday, October 14.
