Nigeria’s Super Eagles have officially begun preparations for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, with Victor Osimhen, Kayode Bankole, and Bruno Onyemaechi among the early arrivals in Kigali, Soccernet.ng reports.
Osimhen, fresh from scoring his first Galatasaray hat-trick in a 4-0 win over Antalyaspor, landed in Rwanda alongside Onyemaechi, who played in Olympiacos’ 2-1 Europa League victory over Bodø/Glimt last Thursday.
Both players were welcomed at the Kigali International Airport by head coach Eric Chelle and members of the team’s backroom staff.
The squad is currently based at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Kigali, with several players and coaching staff expected to join in the coming days.
Victor Osimhen & Bruno Onyemechi in camp with the new coach, Eric Chelle #PoojaInRwanda pic.twitter.com/t7mG7uwdyn
— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) March 17, 2025
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Coaching staff and first players in Super Eagles camp
Assistant coaches Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Ilechukwu, as well as Remo Stars goalkeeper Kayode Bankole, were the first to check into the camp.
Ogunmodede made the trip after leaving Nigeria just before his Remo Stars side strolled to a 2-0 victory over Heartland on Sunday, while Ilechukwu oversaw Enugu Rangers’ commanding 3-0 win against Kwara United before heading to Rwanda.
Arrivals:
— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) March 16, 2025
Assistant coaches, Daniel Ogunmodede & Fidelis Ilechukwu with Remo Stars GK, Kayode Bankole. #PoojaInRwanda pic.twitter.com/Gy8wZfZfSm
Their early presence signals the beginning of an intense preparation phase, with Chelle set to conduct his first training sessions ahead of the must-win fixture against Rwanda on March 21.
More arrivals expected as Nigeria seek redemption
The Super Eagles’ World Cup qualification campaign is at a crossroads. With just two points from four matches, Nigeria trail group leaders Rwanda, Benin, and South Africa by four points.
To stay in contention, they must secure back-to-back wins, starting with their match against Rwanda before facing Zimbabwe in Uyo on March 25.
Club football commitments have temporarily paused, allowing key players to report to camp without delay. Captain William Troost-Ekong and striker Tolu Arokodare are expected among the next arrivals, with the full squad anticipated by Monday.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has also deployed officials to Kigali to oversee logistics and ensure a smooth buildup to the fixture.
The Super Eagles are yet to register a win in the qualifiers, drawing two and losing two in their opening fixtures. This poor start has left them with no margin for error.
Friday’s clash at the Amahoro Stadium is a must-win encounter, with Chelle and his staff tasked with quickly implementing tactical adjustments to turn the team’s fortunes around.
The pressure is on for Nigeria to rediscover their form and prove they remain contenders for a place in the 2026 World Cup. With Osimhen leading the charge, the Super Eagles will be looking to reignite their campaign with a much-needed victory in Kigali.
