Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has named three players from the Nigeria Professional Football League NPFL in his 31-man provisional squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The squad will later be trimmed to 23 players before Nigeria’s crucial matches against Rwanda on March 21 and Zimbabwe on March 25.
Enugu Rangers central defender Ifeanyi Onyebuchi and Papa Daniel of Niger Tornadoes made the list, earning their spots after impressive performances during a test game between the CHAN Eagles and NPFL club Sunshine Stars in Ikenne. The third NPFL player included is a goalkeeper whose selection was described by insiders as a “surprise.”
Chelle’s selection comes amid injury concerns, as Udinese’s Maduka Okoye remains unavailable following recent surgery, while Francis Uzoho and Olorunleke Ojo are also out due to injuries and contract issues, respectively. This reshuffling in goal has opened up opportunities for NPFL players to showcase their talent at the international level.
Editorial
Eric Chelle’s decision to include three NPFL players in the Super Eagles provisional squad signals a positive shift towards recognising local talent. For years, the debate over giving home based players more opportunities has persisted, and this selection could be the start of a new era. Players like Ifeanyi Onyebuchi and Papa Daniel, who have proven themselves domestically, now have a chance to step onto the international stage and compete alongside their foreign-based counterparts.
This decision not only boosts the confidence of NPFL players but also highlights the importance of strengthening the domestic league. By creating a pathway for local players to represent Nigeria on the global stage, the NFF can inspire more investment in grassroots football development. However, for this strategy to succeed long-term, consistent scouting and exposure to high-level competitions will be essential.
The Bet9ja promotion code for February 2025 is YOHAIG. Bet9japromotioncode.com.ng has more info about the Bet9ja promotion code 2025 in Nigeria. Follow this link for more - https://www.bet9japromotioncode.com.ng/. This Bet9ja promo code gives a Bet9ja welcome bonus of up to ₦100,000 on your first deposit. The minimum deposit to bet is ₦100! USE the Bet9ja login signup and the Bet9ja bonus code to get started today on the Bet9ja website. Bet9ja offers a 170 per cent multiple boost bonus and a free bet for either Bet9ja sport or Bet9ja casino. To open a Bet9ja account and be a Bet9ja customer, you must go through the registration process here. Terms and conditions apply when you register with Bet9ja to get the bonus.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As the Super Eagles prepare for crucial qualifiers, the inclusion of these NPFL stars could provide the team with fresh energy and motivation. But the big question remains: Can these players transition seamlessly from local competitions to the intensity of World Cup qualifiers? We believe they can with the right support, coaching, and trust from team management.
Did You Know?
- The NPFL has been a launching pad for several Super Eagles stars, including Vincent Enyeama and Ahmed Musa.
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico and feature an expanded 48-team format.
- The Super Eagles have qualified for six of the last seven FIFA World Cup tournaments, starting from 1994.
- The CHAN Eagles, comprising only home-based players, provide an important platform for NPFL players to gain international experience.
- Francis Uzoho, one of Nigeria’s top goalkeepers, made his senior debut at just 19 years old in a 2017 World Cup qualifier.
