By Daniel Ojukwu
Nigeria’s Super Eagles have opened their training camp in Rabat, Morocco, with 10 players already in as preparations begin for the 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoffs. The camp officially opened on Sunday, marking the start of a crucial week for the team as they push to secure a return to football’s biggest stage.
The first group of players and officials arrived at the Rive Hotel, Rabat, on Sunday afternoon. Team Media Officer Promise Efoghe confirmed that early arrivals included Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare, and Olakunle Olusegun. Later in the evening, Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon, and William Troost-Ekong joined the squad, while Benjamin Fredericks and Chidozie Awaziem checked in by nightfall to complete the first batch of 10 players.
Head coach Eric Chelle has named a 24-man squad for the playoffs, combining experienced Europe-based stars with in-form home-based players. The Super Eagles will face Gabon in their first playoff fixture on Thursday, with victory guaranteeing them a place in the African playoff final against either Cameroon or the Democratic Republic of Congo on November 16, also in Rabat.
The playoff series serves as an additional route for African teams seeking qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, the winner of this round will still contest an intercontinental playoff scheduled for March 2026 in Mexico, against a team from another confederation.
Chelle’s latest selection features several adjustments from last month’s qualifiers, where Nigeria defeated Lesotho and Benin to secure second place in their group and earn a playoff slot. Maduka Okoye returns to the squad to compete for the goalkeeping position, while Awaziem is back in defence. Raphael Onyedika and Chidera Ejuke are also recalled to strengthen the midfield and attack.
Players left out from the previous squad include Felix Agu, Terem Moffi, and Christantus Uche. Team officials said all remaining players are expected to arrive before Monday evening, ahead of the first full training session scheduled for Tuesday.