Chelle Submits Provisional Squad for Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup Playoff Campaign
Super Eagles head coach Eric Sékou Chelle has submitted his provisional squad list for Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff matches, scheduled to take place later this month in Morocco, reports Nigeriasoccernet.com. However, the official list has not yet been made public.
Nigeria secured their spot in the playoff round after a commanding 4–0 victory over Benin Republic last month, a result that underscored their dominance and attacking depth in the qualifiers.
The Super Eagles will begin their playoff campaign on November 13, facing Gabon in the first semi-final. The winner of that clash will advance to the final, where they will meet either Cameroon or DR Congo, with a place in the Intercontinental Playoff, and ultimately, a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup — up for grabs.
NFF Confirms Submission, But List Remains Confidential
Although Chelle has reportedly finalized his player roster, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that the list remains confidential pending the coach’s final approval.
“The coach has submitted the list, but he has not authorized its release yet. He is still monitoring the fitness of some players before finalizing his selection,”
an NFF official revealed.
According to the same source, discussions are ongoing within the federation about expanding the squad size to 25 players, rather than the traditional 22 or 23, in order to give the coaching crew greater tactical flexibility during the mini-tournament.
Early Preparations and Focus on Logistics
Preparations for the crucial playoff began immediately after Nigeria’s final Group C fixture against Benin Republic, signaling the NFF’s determination to ensure the Super Eagles make a return to the global stage after missing out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
“The NFF initiated preparations for the playoff right after the last group match because of how crucial it is,”
the federation source added.
The Super Eagles are expected to assemble in Morocco on November 9, with an advance delegation from the NFF traveling earlier to finalize logistical and training arrangements.
“All players will report directly to Morocco, while only the coach and backroom staff will depart from Nigeria,” the NFF representative confirmed.
A Defining Moment for the Super Eagles
The upcoming playoffs represent a make-or-break moment for Nigeria’s World Cup ambitions. With strong opposition and immense pressure to deliver, fans across the nation are eagerly awaiting the official squad announcement and the kickoff of what promises to be a thrilling and decisive qualification campaign.
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