Leadnaija
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has unveiled his final 23-man squad for the crucial FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The final squad was announced today (Tuesday, March 11) via the team’s official social media platforms.
The 47-year-old Malian tactician trimmed the squad down from the provisional 39-man list released last week.
Chelle selected three goalkeepers, six defenders, six midfielders, and eight attackers, including standout names such as Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, and William Troost-Ekong.
However, several regulars were notably absent from the squad this time around.
LeadNaija Has puts the spotlight on some of the most notable absentees:
Ahmed Musa
The Super Eagles skipper was surprisingly included in the provisional 39-man list after showing flashes of good form with Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Kano Pillars. However, the veteran forward could not secure a spot in what is a very competitive attacking team. Musa’s initial inclusion raised eyebrows among several fans, with some blaming the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for influencing the call-ups.
Kelechi Iheanacho
Iheanacho has seen very little action this season, which likely justifies his omission from the squad. The 28-year-old joined Middlesbrough in the Sky Bet Championship after struggling for playing time with La Liga side Sevilla. Iheanacho has made just five appearances in the Championship and is yet to make any significant impact for Michael Carrick’s side in terms of goals or assists.
Maduka Okoye
Udinese’s goalkeeper was notably left out of Eric Chelle’s three preferred choices, with Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, and Kayode Bankole making the cut. Okoye’s impressive performance on his return from injury against Lazio in the Serie A on Monday, March 10, was not enough to earn him a call-up for the qualifiers.
The 25-year-old made his first appearance since sustaining a wrist injury in December, delivering an exceptional display that ensured the Zebras secured a crucial point at the Stadio Olimpico.
Paul Onuachu
Despite being included in the provisional 39-man list following his recent strong outings for Southampton, Onuachu did not make the final cut. His omission isn’t entirely surprising, given the Super Eagles’ depth in attacking talent. Eight forwards were invited for the two matches, compared to six midfielders and six defenders. The 30-year-old has scored two goals in 18 Premier League appearances for the Saints this season.
Other notable absentees include Cyriel Dessers, Semi Ajayi, Dele Bashiru and Frank Onyeka.
