Super Eagles open camp in South Africa ahead of important World Cup qualifier against Lesotho
The Super Eagles of Nigeria open camp in Polokwane, South Africa, today ahead of Friday’s important 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.
All 23 invited players are expected to fly directly from their respective club bases to South Africa as head coach Eric Chelle and his technical crew begin preparations for the must-win encounter.
Strong form in attack
Chelle will be buoyed by the impressive form of several key Super Eagles players heading into the international window.
Leading the line is Victor Osimhen, who continued his prolific run with a decisive penalty goal in Napoli’s 1–0 Champions League win over Liverpool last week.
New invitee Akor Adams also made headlines in Spain, scoring Sevilla’s fourth goal in their 4–1 demolition of Barcelona, a result that ended the Catalan giants’ 15-game unbeaten streak.
Adams’ strike was assisted by compatriot Chidera Ejuke, further underlining the depth of Nigeria’s attacking options.
Defensive concerns mount
However, the Super Eagles’ defence remains a source of concern for Chelle and his staff.
Bright Osayi-Samuel has already been ruled out due to injury. At the same time, Werder Bremen full-back Felix Agu, one of the newly invited players, was forced off during his side’s Bundesliga clash against St.
Pauli on Saturday.
Agu is due to undergo an MRI scan today to determine the extent of an ankle injury that makes him a major doubt for Friday’s game.
In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi, who only recently returned from injury, endured a difficult outing for Galatasaray in the Istanbul Derby, where his error led to the equaliser against Osimhen’s Napoli at Rams Park.
Friday’s match in Polokwane will not only test Nigeria’s tactical depth but also their resolve as they push to secure maximum points on the road before returning home for their final qualifier in Uyo against Benin.