2026 WCQ: The three midfielders who have made a strong case to be part of Super Eagles squad

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is putting finishing touches to his squad for Nigeria's crucial 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March.  

With Nigeria sitting fifth in Group C with just three points from four games, the Super Eagles are in a precarious position and must secure victories to keep their qualification hopes alive.  

Chelle is expected to make some bold selections to revamp the team, and allnigeriasoccer.com highlights three midfielders who have made a strong case to be called up for next month's double header. 

Joe Aribo (Southampton)

Aribo has been absent from the national team setup due to inconsistent performances at the club level, but he has recently found his form for Southampton.  

Since joining the Saints, the 28-year-old has struggled to establish himself in England. However, he has improved in recent weeks, playing a crucial role in Southampton's push for promotion.  

Aribo has scored three goals in 23 league appearances, and his resurgence makes him a strong candidate for a recall to the Super Eagles midfield.  

Christantus Uche (Getafe)

The Getafe midfielder has been a revelation in La Liga, delivering consistent performances for the Spanish side.  

Uche's versatility allows him to excel in multiple midfield roles, making him a key asset for Getafe, who are battling to stay clear of relegation.  

With two goals and two assists in 23 league matches, Uche has emerged as one of Getafe's standout performers.

His presence would add strength and dynamism to Nigeria's midfield, making him a deserving candidate for Chelle's squad.  

Ibrahim Olawoyin (Rizespor)

Olawoyin is no stranger to Nigerian football, having risen through the ranks of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) before moving to Europe.  

The 27-year-old central midfielder has been outstanding for Rizespor in the Turkish Super Lig, impressing fans with his creativity, intelligence, and technical ability—qualities that Nigeria has lacked in midfield.  

Olawoyin has registered two goals and six assists in 21 matches across all competitions this season, making a strong case for a national team call-up.  

Aribo, Uche, and Olawoyin have proven their worth with consistent performances at their respective clubs.

Their inclusion in the squad could provide the balance, creativity, and energy that the Super Eagles need to turn their World Cup qualification campaign around.

Adeyemi Adewale

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