The Super Eagles of Nigeria have officially opened camp in Uyo with 13 players reporting for duty ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying fixtures against Rwanda and South Africa.
The camp, based at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, began to bubble with activity on Monday as captain William Troost-Ekong, goalkeeper Amas Obasogie, defender Felix Agu, and midfielder Raphael Onyedika were among the earliest arrivals. Their presence set the tone for what promises to be an intense build-up to the two qualifiers that could shape Nigeria’s path to the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
More Arrivals on Tuesday
On Tuesday morning, the squad size grew with the arrival of nine additional players. Among them were Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi, who remains one of the most experienced members of the team, and versatile defender Calvin Bassey. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Ola Aina, and Bright Osayi-Samuel also checked in to strengthen the squad.
Moses Simon, Chidozie Awaziem, goalkeeper Adebayo Adeleye, and young defender Benjamin Fredericks completed the latest wave of arrivals. Their presence has injected fresh energy into the camp as anticipation builds for the opening training sessions.
According to the team’s media officer, Promise Efoghe, the remaining 10 invited players are expected to join later on Tuesday. Once the full complement is assembled, the Eagles will begin intensive preparations under head coach Finidi George, who is under pressure to deliver positive results after a mixed start to life in the dugout.
First Training Session Tonight
The Super Eagles are scheduled to hold their first official training session on Tuesday night at the practice pitch of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. This session will focus on light drills, recovery work for the new arrivals, and tactical introductions for the two upcoming fixtures.
Finidi and his technical crew have emphasized the need for sharpness, unity, and discipline as Nigeria prepares to face Rwanda in Kigali before hosting South Africa in Uyo. The matches come at a critical stage in the qualifiers, with group points already at a premium.
Key Fixtures Loom
Nigeria, three-time African champions, are aiming to return to the FIFA World Cup after missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar. Their group includes tough opposition, with Rwanda and South Africa both posing threats to qualification hopes.
The clash against Rwanda is expected to test Nigeria’s ability to break down compact, defensive sides, while the home game against Bafana Bafana could determine who takes control of the group standings. With star players yet to arrive, Finidi George will hope the full squad gels quickly and avoids injury setbacks before the decisive matches.
Optimism in Camp
Despite the absence of several key names, the atmosphere in camp is said to be positive. Captain Troost-Ekong’s early arrival has been welcomed by officials, with his leadership viewed as crucial to maintaining focus. Iwobi, one of Nigeria’s most capped active internationals, is also expected to play a vital role in linking midfield and attack.
Young talents such as Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Benjamin Fredericks add a fresh dimension, with fans keen to see how they adapt to the intensity of World Cup qualifying football.
The Road Ahead
Nigeria’s preparations will continue in Uyo throughout the week, with full training sessions commencing once the squad is complete. Tactical drills, set-piece routines, and fitness work are all on the agenda as Finidi George and his assistants look to mould a winning unit.
The Super Eagles’ journey to the 2026 World Cup remains a work in progress, but the blend of experienced internationals and emerging stars offers hope. With a strong turnout of players now in camp and more expected, the build-up to Rwanda and South Africa promises to capture the attention of millions of Nigerian fans.
For now, the focus is firmly on Uyo, where the Eagles have spread their wings once again, determined to soar back to the biggest stage in world football.
