SPORTS

Boniface Dropped From Super Eagles Squad

Published

4 hours ago

August 29, 2025

Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface was the most notable omission as Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle unveiled his final squad for Nigeria’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.

The 23-year-old has endured a difficult summer after his proposed move to AC Milan fell through due to medical concerns. Despite his absence, the list features established stars such as Victor Osimhen, William Troost-Ekong, Ademola Lookman, Stanley Nwabali, Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Samuel Chukwueze, and Calvin Bassey.

Chelle also rewarded impressive performers from the Unity Cup earlier this year, handing call-ups to Felix Agu, Benjamin Fredericks, and Christantus Uche.

Nigeria will first take on Rwanda’s Amavubi at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, on September 6, before travelling to South Africa to face the Bafana Bafana three days later, on September 9, 2025.

With only seven points from six games, the Super Eagles sit fourth in Group B and must win their remaining matches to keep alive hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

Final Squad List

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabili (Chippa United, South Africa); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania); Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC, Greece).

Defenders: William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia); Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England); Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece); Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes, France); Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany); Benjamin Fredericks (Dender, Belgium).

Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England); Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England); Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas, Turkey); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio, Italy); Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium); Christantus Uche (Getafe, Spain).

Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy); Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy); Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey); Moses Simon (Paris FC, France); Cyriel Dessers (Rangers, Scotland); Tolu Arokodare (Genk, Belgium).