Nigeria have announced a 24-man squad for this month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup African play-offs in Morocco, with goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and forward Chidera Ejuke among the notable returnees.
The Nigeria Football Federation across all its social media confirmed the list on Saturday ahead of the semi-final clash with Gabon at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat on November 13.
The Super Eagles will need to win that match to reach the final three days later, where they could face either Cameroon or DR Congo for a place in the inter-confederation play-offs.
Among the goalkeepers, Okoye’s inclusion was widely anticipated. His recall follows sustained calls for his reinstatement after recent doubts surrounding Stanley Nwabali’s consistency.
In defence, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Chidozie Awaziem and Semi Ajayi were all named.
Osayi-Samuel returns after recovering from a muscle injury that sidelined him during the last international window.
Nantes defender Awaziem also returns after missing recent windows, while captain William Troost-Ekong and Fulham’s Calvin Bassey maintain their places.
In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf and Alex Iwobi retain their positions, joined by Club Brugge’s Raphael Onyedika, who returns after recovering from a hamstring injury.
The attack also includes current African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams and Olusegun Olakunle, providing depth across wide and central areas.
Notable omissions include Trabzonspor striker Paul Onuachu and young midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro.
Nigeria are aiming to return to the World Cup for the first time since 2018 after missing out on the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
The play-offs in Rabat will see four African teams — Nigeria, Gabon, Cameroon and DR Congo — compete in two single-leg semi-finals and a one-match final from November 13 to 16.
The PUNCH