Ajayi returns, Moffi back, Dessers stays, Adams set for debut as Super Eagles tweak squad for Benin, Lesotho

The Super Eagles have released their 23-man squad for this month’s crucial FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Lesotho, with a mix of familiar names and a few new faces making the cut.

In goal, Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, and Adebayo Adeleye retain their places, with the Chippa United shot-stopper expected to keep his No.1 shirt.

The defence sees the return of Semi Ajayi, who slots in following Ola Aina’s injury during the 1-1 draw with South Africa in Bloemfontein.

He joins William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Benjamin Fredrick, and Felix Agu in a backline mix of experience and youth.

Midfield options include Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and New England Revolution  Alhassan Yusuf, who returns to the fold.

In attack, Nigeria boasts one of its most stacked lineups yet. Victor Osimhen headlines the list alongside Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, and Cyriel Dessers, who keeps his spot despite criticism from the last outing.

Nice’s Terem Moffi returns, while Akor Adams finally looks set for his debut after several missed opportunities. New invitee Ola Olusegun completes the frontline.

We’re back in action this month and it’s fight till the finish! #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/hvUU5KfC5J

— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) October 1, 2025

With Nigeria needing maximum points to stay in contention for a World Cup ticket, the coming clashes against Benin and Lesotho could define the Super Eagles’ path to 2026.

Full 23-man Super Eagles squad

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, Adebayo Adeleye
Defenders: Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, Calvin Bassey, William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf
Forwards: Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Tolu Arokodare, Victor Osimhen, Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams, Ola Olusegun