Super Eagles: Predicted squad list for Gabon World Cup play-offs

All eyes are on Super Eagles of Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle as he prepares to unveil his squad for the decisive World Cup play-offs against Gabon, Soccernet.ng reports.

Multiple media reports have circulated on social platforms claiming a 23-man list has already been finalised—but with no official confirmation from the Nigeria Football Federation yet, the noise remains speculation.

What is certain, however, is that Chelle faces a delicate selection, as several regulars are battling injuries or fitness concerns, while a suspension means at least one key defensive figure may miss the opening leg.

On the flip side, some new players are pushing strongly for inclusion after impressive club performances, and there have been whispers of a potential first-time call-up for a Bundesliga defender.

Regardless, it remains an informed prediction, pending official confirmation from the NFF.

Predicted Super Eagles squad list for Gabon World Cup play-offs

Goalkeepers

Nigeria are unlikely to deviate from the familiar trio that has featured in recent windows. Stanley Nwabali remains favourite to start, while Maduka Okoye also stays in contention after his return to Udinese's starting XI.

Maduka Okoye returned to action for Udinese after his 2-month ban.

He looked sharp as he saved multiple one-on-one chances. pic.twitter.com/taf11TRQWB

— POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) October 21, 2025

Singida Black Stars, Amas Obasogie could once again complete the department as a backup option.

Defenders

Calvin Bassey and William Troost-Ekong are expected to anchor the unit, with Zaidu Sanusi likely returning on the left. Reports suggest German-born centre-back Moritz Jenz could earn his first call-up after a strong Bundesliga campaign.

However, Semi Ajayi is suspended for the first leg due to accumulated bookings, though the Hull City man may still be named in the squad as cover for their final fixture if they defeat Gabon. Bruno Onyemaechi, Chidozie Awaziem, and Benjamin Frederick are expected to make a return to the squad.

Injuries to full-backs remain a concern, particularly with Felix Agu ruled out after ankle surgery and Ola Aina recovering from a hamstring issue.

Midfield

Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi headline the midfield once again. Frank Onyeka remains a reliable squad option, while Club Brugge’s Raphael Onyedika makes a return to the squad. Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru would have been a strong contender, but his hamstring concern means Chelle may seek alternative cover.

Multiple reports have linked a first call-up for Ebenezer Akinsanmiro following his recent performance for Pisa SC. Although Crystal Palace's Christantus Uche has not earned enough minutes in Palace's league campaign so far, he has a lot to prove to Oliver Glasner in the coming days.

Forward

The attack remains stacked with proven match-winners. Victor Osimhen is expected to lead the line despite recent fitness management at club level, while Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon should retain their spots out wide.

Samuel Chukwueze—despite being a doubt earlier due to a hamstring complaint—has returned to action and is likely to be named if fully cleared by Fulham’s medical team.

Injuries to Terem Moffi and Cyriel Dessers mean the striking depth may come from players like Akor Adams and Tolu Arokodare.

Predicted Super Eagles 23-man squad:

Goalkeepers: Nwabali; Okoye; Obasogie
Defenders: Troost-Ekong; Bassey; Ajayi; Jenz; Sanusi; Onyemaechi; Awaziem; Fredericks
Midfielders: Iwobi; Ndidi; Onyeka; Onyedika; Akinsanmiro; Uche
Forwards: Osimhen; Lookman; Chukwueze; Simon; Akor; Arokodare

The official squad announcement is expected anytime this week—until it is announced, this remains an informed prediction and not a confirmed list.