Super Eagles Coach Makes Squad Changes Ahead of Crucial World Cup Qualifiers

Super Eagles Coach Makes Squad Changes Ahead of Crucial World Cup Qualifiers

By BSN Sports 

 Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has made two changes to his 23-man squad ahead of the final fixtures of the FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, as the team prepares to face Lesotho and Benin Republic in make-or-break matches, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Defender Zaidu Sanusi and midfielder Christantus Uche have been drafted in to replace the injured duo of Cyriel Dessers and Bright Osayi-Samuel. The adjustments come as Nigeria braces for a tense finish to their World Cup qualification bid.

The Super Eagles are set to play Lesotho in South Africa before hosting Benin Republic in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, in their final Group C fixtures.

Qualification Hangs in the Balance

With 11 points from eight matches, Nigeria currently sits third in the group standings behind Benin Republic and South Africa, who are both tied at 14 points, with Benin edging ahead on goal difference.

Crucially, FIFA recently docked three points from South Africa following a disciplinary ruling, a development that has reshaped the group standings and intensified the battle for the sole World Cup spot.

Rwanda also sits on 11 points, level with Nigeria, further tightening the race in one of Africa's most competitive qualifying groups.

To secure qualification, Nigeria must win both remaining fixtures and rely on favourable results elsewhere, specifically, hoping Rwanda defeats Benin Republic and Zimbabwe holds South Africa in their matchday nine encounters.

As the Super Eagles prepare to fight for their World Cup dream, the pressure is mounting on Chelle and his squad to deliver not just results, but also hope to millions of Nigerian fans.