'We are 21' - Super Eagles coach Chelle confirms arrival of MLSer, provides update on Olusegun

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has confirmed the arrival of New England Revolution midfielder Alhassan Yusuf to the national team’s camp ahead of Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho on Friday.

The team resumed training at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Tuesday as preparations intensified for the must-win encounter.

Speaking during a press conference, Chelle revealed that Yusuf arrived alongside Akor Adams of Sevilla and Zaidu Sanusi of FC Porto, bringing the total number of players in camp to 21.

"Three players came yesterday, Akor, Yusuf and Zaidu. Now we are 21," he told reporters.

The Super Eagles manager, however, expressed frustration over the late arrival of some players, noting that such delays disrupt tactical preparations for matches.

Despite his concerns, Chelle maintained confidence in the squad’s quality and mentality, urging them to remain focused on securing maximum points against Lesotho.

"I have no problem with that because I trust in my group and my players. So we go to the war with these guys. We need to stay focus on our games," he added.

Chelle also provided an update on Olakunle Olusegun, revealing that the Russian-based forward did not make it to South Africa but has since travelled to Nigeria to await the team ahead of their next match against Benin.

"We have a player who was blocked in Turkey. He went straight to Nigeria to wait for us in Nigeria for the second game."

With Olusegun’s situation clarified, Nigeria now boasts a near full squad as they fine-tune preparations for Friday’s clash.

The Super Eagles currently sit third in their qualifying group and are desperate for victory to close the gap on Benin and South Africa, who occupy the top two positions.

Nigeria will also be keeping an eye on the Bafana Bafana’s clash with Zimbabwe, hoping the South Africans drop points to further boost her qualification hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Adeyemi Adewale

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