The Super Eagles will begin training today in Polokwane, South Africa, ahead of Friday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
According to the team’s media officer Promise Efoghe, the camp officially opened on Monday at The Ranch Hotel in Polokwane, marking the start of preparations.
The technical crew and backroom staff, led by head coach Eric Chelle, are already in camp, while players continue to arrive in batches through Johannesburg from various locations.
Today’s (Tuesday) training begins the journey for the decisive encounter against the Crocodiles at the Peter Mokaba Stadium on Friday, October 10.
The first training session will emphasize recovery and tactical organization as Chelle fine-tunes his strategy for the must-win tie.
Meanwhile sssistant coach Daniel Ogunmodede is expected to join later today after guiding Remo Stars to a 2–0 NPFL victory over Wikki Tourists on Monday.
Nigeria currently sit fourth in Group C with 11 points from eight matches.
However, FIFA’s disciplinary ruling against South Africa has reshaped the qualification standings.
The world body awarded a 3–0 victory to Lesotho after South Africa fielded an ineligible player, reducing Bafana Bafana’s total to 14, leaving Nigeria with just three points behind.
Chelle’s 23-man squad for the doubleheader includes debutant Akor Adams, in-form Sevilla striker, alongside regulars Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Terem Moffi.
Captain William Troost-Ekong leads the group, with defensive support from Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Benjamin Fredrick, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Zaidu Sanusi, who replaced injured Bright Osayi-Samuel.
In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, and Alhassan Yusuf are expected to anchor control.
Stanley Nwabali retains his position as first-choice goalkeeper, supported by Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye.
With two fixtures remaining, the job is straight forward for Chelle’s men.
The Super Eagles must secure victory over Lesotho on Friday and another against Benin in Uyo and hope for for favorable results elsewhere that could help Nigeria possibly secure automatic 2026 FIFA World Cup spot or qualification play offs spot
