The national squad has officially convened in Rabat, Morocco. Intensive training is now commencing for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup CAF playoff against Gabon, scheduled for Thursday. As of Tuesday, 18 players have reported to the established camp.
The team utilized its official social media platform to confirm the player arrivals. The list was shared under the simple message: “Eagles in Camp.”
Player Check-In: The Rabat Roster
Team officials, along with the initial group of players, arrived at the Rive Hotel in the Moroccan capital on Sunday afternoon. This signaled the start of the preparation’s final phase for the decisive qualifying match.
Players currently integrated into the camp include:
- Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali and Amas Obasogie.
- Defensive Line: William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Chidozie Awaziem, and Benjamin Fredericks.
- Midfield Talent: Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Chidera Ejuke, and Raphael Onyedika.
- Attacking Force: Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Tolu Arokodare, and Olakunle Olusegun.
Team staff verified that key early arrivals included a core group of prominent players. Bassey, Iwobi, and Chukwueze were among the first, alongside Arokodare and Olusegun.
The Path to Global Qualification
Head coach Eric Chelle named a 24-man squad for these pivotal playoff games. The selection features a robust blend of established stars and athletes showing consistent club form.
Notably, goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and winger Chidera Ejuke were brought back into the national setup. Both players earned their recalls due to strong performances recently with their club sides.
The national team faces Gabon in the semi-final clash this Thursday. In the other fixture, Cameroon will compete against the Democratic Republic of Congo. Both games will be held at the El-Barid Stadium in Rabat.
The winners of Thursday’s matches will progress to the final on November 16. The victor of that ultimate showdown will earn passage to the inter-confederation playoffs.
Successfully navigating that final stage grants a coveted position at the 2026 World Cup in North America. The team hopes to secure its return to football’s most celebrated stage, having missed the 2022 edition.
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