The journey for the Super Eagles in the Super Eagles World Cup Playoffs 2026 officially began on Sunday in Rabat, Morocco, with the arrival of ten players signalling the start of intense preparation for a decisive week in Nigeria’s campaign.

Early arrivals set the tone

On Sunday afternoon, the first batch of players and team officials arrived at the Rive Hotel in Rabat, underlining coach Eric Chelle’s determination as Nigeria prepares for the playoff tie. The early arrivals include the trio of Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze, as well as forwards Tolu Arokodare and Olakunle Olusegun.
Later the same Sunday, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, winger Moses Simon and defender William Troost‑Ekong joined the squad. By nightfall, Benjamin Fredericks and Chidozie Awaziem rounded out the arrivals, bringing the total to ten players in camp.

Squad finalised for the campaign

Coach Eric Chelle has named a strong 24-man roster for the Super Eagles’ World Cup Playoffs 2026 push. The squad features a blend of Europe-based stars and local standouts. Among the returnees is goalkeeper Maduka Okoye (Udinese) and defender Chidozie Awaziem, alongside midfield creativity from Onyedika and forward options.
This team will face Gabon National Football Team in the first playoff match on Thursday — a win would send the Super Eagles into a final African playoff against either Cameroon National Football Team or the Democratic Republic of Congo National Football Team on November 16 — and then into the inter-continental stage in March 2026.

The route and what’s at stake

In the format of the 2026 campaign, the four best runners-up from the nine African qualifying groups compete in a mini playoff tournament. Nigeria’s spot was secured after victories over Lesotho and Benin lifted them to second place in their group behind South Africa.
As favourites in the Super Eagles World Cup Playoffs 2026, Nigeria must maintain tactical discipline and avoid complacency — coach Chelle has been clear on that message.