Nigeria, leading Group C with seven points, faces Rwanda in Kigali on October 10 and South Africa in Uyo on October 14.

The squad features regulars like captain William Troost-Ekong (PAOK), Victor Osimhen (Napoli), Alex Iwobi (Fulham), and Ademola Lookman (Atalanta).

 The full lineup includes:

Goalkeepers: Francis Uzoho, Ojo Olorunleke, Maduka Okoye 

Defenders: Troost-Ekong, Kenneth Omeruo, Ola Aina, Jamilu Collins, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Zaidu Sanusi, Calvin Bassey 

Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Joe Aribo, Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika 

Forwards: Osimhen, Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Taiwo Awoniyi, Paul Onuachu, Cyriel Dessers, Gift Orban. 

Notable omissions include Ahmed Musa, Kingsley Madueke, and the injured Victor Boniface. 

Chelle emphasized a balance of experience and youth, stating, “We’re focused on qualification with a strong, dynamic team.”

The absences have sparked debate, with fans questioning the exclusion of veterans like Musa. 

Nigeria aims to extend their unbeaten run and secure a spot in their seventh World Cup. Training begins next week ahead of the crucial double-header.