2026 WCQ: Three changes Nigerians expect in Eric Chelle's first Super Eagles squad announcement

The Super Eagles are set to resume their quest for a place in the 2026 Fifa World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, but their chances of qualification are hanging by a thread.  

After a poor start in the qualifiers, Nigeria sits fifth in Group C with just three points from four games, trailing Rwanda and South Africa by four points.

With the team in danger of missing back-to-back World Cups, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed Malian coach Eric Chelle to turn things around.  

As the Malian tactician is preparing is his first squad list for the crucial qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March, expectations are high among Nigerian fans.

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents three key changes Nigerians anticipate

Fresh Faces

The Super Eagles, under Augustine Eguavoen, largely relied on experienced players during the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, even when some were out of form at their clubs.

While a few new faces were introduced, the core of the team remained unchanged. These led to calls for a shake-up, urging Chelle to inject fresh talent into the squad.

The introduction of new players is seen as essential to increasing competition within the team and ensuring that only the most committed and in-form players get the nod.  

Introduction of home-based players

With the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) showing signs of improvement in organization and technical quality, there is growing demand for more home-based players to be included in the Super Eagles squad.  

Fans believe this could help strengthen the team in the long run and enhance competition within the team.

It is also believed this would provide exposure for domestic talents, potentially increasing their chances of securing moves to top leagues abroad.

Dropping out-of-form players

One of the biggest criticisms of past Super Eagles squads has been the inclusion of players who are out of form at their clubs.

Chelle is expected to break this trend by selecting players strictly based on current performance and their suitability for his tactical system.  

With Nigeria in a must-win situation, fans want to see a squad built on merit, with only the best-performing players earning a call-up.

The hope is that this approach will inject urgency and hunger into the team, increasing their chances of qualifying for the World Cup.  

Adeyemi Adewale

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