Sports

Osimhen Returns to Lead Super Eagles in Crucial World Cup Qualifiers

Victor Osimhen is back in the Super Eagles squad as Nigeria prepares for the final round of 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin Republic next week.

The Galatasaray striker, who missed the 1-1 draw against South Africa in September due to a thigh injury, is expected to spearhead Nigeria’s attack in both fixtures. Osimhen marked his return to club action by scoring the winning goal for Galatasaray against Liverpool in the Champions League on Tuesday.

Coach Eric Chelle named Osimhen in his 23-man squad released on the Super Eagles’ official X account on Friday. The squad also sees the return of defenders Semi Ajayi and Terem Moffi, as well as midfielders Alhassan Yusuf and Olakunle Olusegun, all recalled after extended absences.

The Super Eagles will face Lesotho away in South Africa on October 10, before hosting Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo four days later.

Full 23-Man Super Eagles Squad:

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, Adebayo Adeleye
Defenders: Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, Calvin Bassey, William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf
Forwards: Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Tolu Arokodare, Victor Osimhen, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams, Ola Olusegun

Nigeria will be aiming for maximum points from the two fixtures to strengthen their chances of booking a spot at next year’s World Cup.

Olayinka Babatunde

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