The Super Eagles kick off their World Cup qualifiers campaign by hosting Lesotho on Thursday, with fans anticipating a victory. Despite a less-than-expected performance in the last international break, the 2026 World Cup qualifiers present another opportunity for the Super Eagles to prepare for the upcoming AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.
Injuries sideline key players like Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Chukwueze. Bayer Leverkusen's Tella earns his first call-up, generating excitement due to his crucial role in Leverkusen's impressive start to the Bundesliga season. Awoniyi and Ola Aina return from injuries, contributing significantly for Nottingham Forest.
Victor Boniface continues to impress in Germany, winning the Bundesliga's Rookie of the Month for the third consecutive time in his debut season. In the absence of Ndidi, Onyeka and Iwobi are expected to anchor the midfield, while Iheanacho, in top form during the last international break, remains a reliable asset for Nigeria.
Calvin Bassey and Kenneth Omeruo are slated to lead the defensive line. Uzoho, Adebayo, and Obasigie vie for the goalkeeping role, with Obasigie replacing Maduka Okoye in the squad. The Super Eagles aim for a top performance against Lesotho, viewing the match as a semi-preparation for the impending AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.
Expected Super Eagles Lineup: Uzoho; Ola Aina, Bassey, Umerou, Onyemachi; Iheanacho, Iwobi, Onyeka, Moses Simon, Awoniyi, Boniface