Super Eagles Begin Training in Uyo as Osimhen, Lookman Yet to Arrive

Super Eagles Begin Training in Uyo as Osimhen, Lookman Yet to Arrive

By Niyi Busari 

The Nigerian national team has commenced preparations in Uyo for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying fixture against Rwanda, scheduled for Saturday, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

 Fifteen players participated in the first training session, with team captain William Troost-Ekong among the early arrivals, setting the tone for what is expected to be a pivotal international window.

Troost-Ekong, who plies his trade in Saudi Arabia, reported to camp on Monday, along with goalkeeper Amas Obasogie and defenders Bruno Onyemaechi and Felix Agu. Agu, who impressed during the Unity Cup Tournament in London this past summer, continues to strengthen his case for a permanent spot at left back following consistent performances for Bundesliga side Werder Bremen.

Also in camp is forward Moses Simon, who arrived on the back of a goal and assist performance for his new club Paris FC in the French Ligue 2 over the weekend. Goalkeeper Adebayo Adeleye (Panetolikos, Greece), defenders Chidozie Awaziem and Benjamin Frederick, and midfielders Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru have also joined the squad.

Additional arrivals include full-back Olaoluwa Aina, defenders Bright Osayi-Samuel and Calvin Bassey, as well as midfielder Alex Iwobi—all of whom bring considerable international experience into the Super Eagles setup.

First-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who recently recovered from an injury scare, was expected to arrive Tuesday evening. Also being awaited are midfielder Christantus Uche—who secured a deadline-day move to Crystal Palace from Getafe—and forwards Samuel Chukwueze (now with Fulham), Tolu Arokodare (Wolverhampton Wanderers), and Cyriel Dessers (Panathinaikos).

African Player of the Year and Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, and midfielder Raphael Onyedika are also expected to link up with the squad ahead of Saturday’s encounter.

The 23-man squad will also be responsible for next week’s high-stakes Matchday 8 qualifier against South Africa in Bloemfontein, set to take place at the Toyota Stadium (Free State Stadium) on Tuesday evening.