Eric Chelle invites defender with a no-fear factor inspired by Romelu Lukaku for Rwanda, Zimbabwe – report

Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has reportedly handed Slavia Prague defender Igoh Ogbu his maiden Super Eagles call-up ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March, Soccernet.ng understands.

According to ScoreNigeria, Ogbu has been selected as a direct replacement for injured West Bromwich Albion centre-back Semi Ajayi, who is sidelined after picking up an injury during training last month.

Ogbu’s invitation is a reward for his impressive performances in Europe, where he has been one of Nigeria’s most consistent defenders in recent years.

Nigeria and Slavia Prague defender Igoh Ogbu. Photo by IMAGO

The 25-year-old has been a rock at the heart of Slavia Prague’s defence, helping the Czech giants lead the Czech First League by 13 points in their pursuit of an eighth league title.

The former Gombe United star has featured in 18 league matches this season, scoring once and playing a key role in Slavia’s defensive solidity.

His experience at the highest level, including appearances in the Champions League qualifiers and Europa League group stage, makes him a ready replacement for Ajayi.

Nigeria and Slavia Prague defender Igoh Ogbu. Photo Credit X

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Eric Chelle’s new man: Igoh Ogbu

Ogbu’s rise to prominence began with the Nigeria U-20 team, where he played at the 2019 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations and the FIFA U-20 World Cup, making seven appearances in both tournaments.

His club career took him to Norway with Rosenborg, Levanger, Sogndal, and Lillestrøm before sealing a move to Slavia Prague in January 2023. Since then, he has established himself as one of the best defenders in the Czech top flight.

A no-nonsense, tough-tackling centre-back, Ogbu has shown he can hold his own against Europe’s best forwards.

The Nigerian faced Romelu Lukaku, Olivier Giroud, and Omar Marmoush in last season’s Europa League – experiences that only boosted his confidence.

Nigeria and Slavia Prague defender Igoh Ogbu against Romelu Lukaku. Photo by IMAGO

“Playing against Giroud, Lukaku, and Marmoush can be described as a good experience for me, a great thing,” Ogbu told Tribal Football as per Brila.

“Lukaku is a very strong striker, Olivier Giroud, and Marmoush as well, who everybody knows; the experience is there. I wasn’t stressed at all.”

Ogbu particularly impressed in Slavia Prague’s 3-1 defeat to AC Milan, where he stood firm against Giroud’s physical presence. He also held his own in two hard-fought games against Roma, limiting Lukaku’s influence in Slavia’s three-man defence.

“After playing against Lukaku, I think I don’t have any fear against any striker,” he added.

Nigeria and Slavia Prague defender Igoh Ogbu. Photo by IMAGO

Patiently waiting for Nigeria chance
Despite his consistent displays, Ogbu’s first senior national team call-up has been long overdue. The defender has remained patient, trusting that his time would eventually come.

“I’m not in a haste. I just believe in what I can do, and I have to wait. Other Nigerians are playing, and other players are there as well,” Ogbu said.

“It will always come to be your time if you keep working hard and improving your game. It will happen in God’s timing.”

With Ogbu now set to join the Super Eagles squad, his fearless attitude and growing reputation could make him a vital figure in Chelle’s plans as Nigeria look to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

The Slavia Prague star will battle with the likes of Calvin Bassey and captain William Troost-Ekong for a place in the heart of Nigeria’s defence – and if his performances in Europe are anything to go by, Ogbu will not be fazed by the challenge.