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•As Okoye, Arokodare, Ejuke, Onyedika return
By JOE APU
Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have received a major boost with the return of several key players ahead of the crucial playoff tournament in Morocco.
Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, striker Tolu Arokodare, winger Chidera Ejuke, and midfielder Raphael Onyedika have all been recalled to the Super Eagles squad as head coach Eric Chelle finalizes his 24-man list for the African playoff in Rabat.
The returning quartet will join established stars including talismanic forward Victor Osimhen, Captain William Troost-Ekong, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, defenders Bright Osayi-Samuel and Calvin Bassey, in what promises to be a revitalized and balanced Nigerian side.
Okoye’s recall provides valuable depth in the goalkeeping department, with the Udinese shot-stopper expected to serve as backup to Nwabali. Arokodare’s aerial strength, Ejuke’s flair on the wings, and Onyedika’s composure in midfield are all seen as timely reinforcements as Nigeria aims to return to football’s biggest stage.
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Other notable names in the squad include Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, Jerome Akor Adams, Olusegun Olakunle, and young defender Benjamin Fredericks.
Nigeria will face Gabon in the first semi-final at the Complexe Sportif Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan (22,000 capacity) in Rabat, while Cameroon takes on the Democratic Republic of Congo in the other semi-final at the El-Barid Stadium (18,000 capacity), also in Rabat.
Defender Oluwasemilogo Ajayi will miss the clash with Gabon due to a one-match suspension after accumulating two yellow cards during the qualifiers.
The players are expected to arrive in Morocco from their various clubs across Europe and beyond, with camp opening on Monday, November 10 in Rabat.
The Super Eagles are determined to reignite their qualification campaign and secure an early advantage on the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
