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 winger Chidera Ejuke making a return to the Super Eagles.
The list, released by the Nigeria Football Federation on Saturday, comes ahead of Nigeria’s semi-final clash against Gabon at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat on November 13.
The Super Eagles must win the tie to reach the final on November 16, where they could face either Cameroon or DR Congo for a spot in the inter-confederation play-offs.
Okoye, who plays for Udinese, returns to the squad for the first time since June following strong performances in Italy. The 26-year-old regained his starting role at the club after serving a two-month suspension and has impressed with consistent displays, including last weekend’s win over Atalanta.
In defence, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Chidozie Awaziem, and Semi Ajayi were listed. Osayi-Samuel returns from injury, while Ajayi will miss the Gabon clash due to suspension but remains part of the team.
Captain William Troost-Ekong and Fulham’s Calvin Bassey retain their places, while Nantes defender Awaziem returns after missing recent matches.
Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, Alhassan Yusuf, and Raphael Onyedika make up the midfield. Onyedika returns after recovering from a hamstring injury and has been in fine form for Club Brugge, earning praise for his display against Barcelona.
Ejuke, who plays for Sevilla, makes his first appearance since 2021. The winger has been in solid form in La Liga, with his creativity and pace expected to boost Nigeria’s attack led by Victor Osimhen.
Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams, and Olusegun Olakunle complete the forward line.
However, Paul Onuachu and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro were both left out despite recent good form for their clubs.
Nigeria are looking to qualify for their first World Cup since 2018 after missing the last edition in Qatar.
The play-offs will feature four teams — Nigeria, Gabon, Cameroon, and DR Congo — battling in two semi-finals and a final between November 13 and 16 in Rabat, Morocco. The winner will progress to the inter-confederation play-offs for a chance to reach the 2026 World Cup in North America.
