Osimhen, Lookman Lead Super Eagles 21-Man Squad For Must-Win World Cup

Nigeria’s Super Eagles coach José Peseiro has unveiled a strong 21-man squad led by star forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman for the team’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Lesotho. The must-win encounter is scheduled to take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, with fans eagerly anticipating a dominant performance from the three-time African champions.

Osimhen, Lookman Headline Strong Super Eagles Squad

Napoli’s prolific striker Victor Osimhen, who has been Nigeria’s top scorer in recent competitions, is expected to lead the attacking line alongside Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, who continues to impress in Italy’s Serie A. Both players will be central to Peseiro’s tactical setup as the Super Eagles aim to start their World Cup qualifying campaign on a strong note.

Other key players include Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City), Alex Iwobi (Fulham), Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City), and Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan). Their inclusion signals Peseiro’s intent to blend experience with youthful energy in a game Nigeria cannot afford to drop points in.

Midfield and Defensive Reinforcements

In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi is expected to anchor the center of the park, providing defensive stability and leadership. He’ll be supported by Alex Iwobi, whose creativity and playmaking ability remain vital to Nigeria’s attacking transitions.

Defensively, the coach has recalled Semi Ajayi (West Brom), Calvin Bassey (Fulham), and Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest), while Bright Osayi-Samuel and Zaidu Sanusi are expected to operate as full-backs. With Francis Uzoho likely to start in goal, Peseiro will hope for a solid defensive display to avoid the costly errors that plagued recent fixtures.

Return of Key Stars and Notable Absentees

One of the highlights of the squad announcement is the return of Taiwo Awoniyi after recovering from injury. The Nottingham Forest striker brings physicality and aerial threat, giving Peseiro multiple attacking options.

However, there are some notable absentees. Ahmed Musa, Nigeria’s long-serving captain, remains out of the squad as the team continues its transition to a younger generation. Also missing is Wilfred Onyeka, who is nursing an injury.

Peseiro’s decision to streamline the squad to 21 players underscores his determination to maintain focus and balance in the team selection for this important fixture.

A Must-Win Match for the Super Eagles

The fixture against Lesotho is considered a must-win for the Super Eagles, who are determined to return to the FIFA World Cup after missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar. Nigeria sits in a competitive qualifying group that also includes South Africa, Benin Republic, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe — making every point crucial.

Playing in front of home fans in Uyo, the Super Eagles will look to assert dominance early and send a strong message to their group rivals. The team’s attacking firepower, led by Osimhen and Lookman, gives them a clear edge, but Peseiro has warned that underestimating Lesotho could be costly.

“Every team in Africa is improving. We must play with full focus, discipline, and aggression. Our goal is to qualify and make Nigerians proud,” Peseiro told reporters.

Super Eagles Squad List (vs Lesotho)

Goalkeepers: Francis Uzoho, Adebayo Adeleye, Olorunleke Ojo
Defenders: Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi, Kenneth Omeruo
Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika, Frank Onyeka
Forwards: Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Kelechi Iheanacho, Moses Simon, Taiwo Awoniyi, Victor Boniface