With the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers approaching, Super Eagles coach Finidi George is set to finalize his 23-man squad by March 17.
Several players are at risk of being axed as he trims down the provisional list.
Home-Based Players at Risk
Despite strong performances in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), local stars like Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars), Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Enugu Rangers), and Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes) might miss out due to stiff competition in the squad.
Injury Concerns
- Maduka Okoye (Udinese): Ruled out due to a wrist ligament injury, expected to recover in April.
- Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio): Sidelined with an ankle sprain, his return before the qualifiers remains uncertain.
- Akor Adams (Sevilla): Picked up an injury in training and has been out since February, delaying his potential Super Eagles debut.
Out-of-Form & Inconsistent Players
Several big names could be dropped due to poor performances:
- Kelechi Iheanacho: Struggled for form at Sevilla, then moved to Middlesbrough, raising concerns over match fitness.
- Ahmed Musa: Nigeria’s most-capped player, but limited game time at Kano Pillars may cost him his spot.
- Paul Onuachu & Cyriel Dessers: Once prolific, both have struggled to impress at Southampton and Rangers, respectively.
- Umar Sadiq, Joe Aribo, Chidera Ejuke, Alhassan Yusuf, Christantus Uche, and Igoh Ogbu also face exclusion due to inconsistent form.
What’s Next?
The final 23-man squad will be announced on March 17, ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe on March 21 and 25.
Stay tuned for updates as Nigeria gears up for the global stage!
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