The Super Eagles of Nigeria have officially kicked off their preparation for Thursday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup Africa playoff semi-final against Gabon, settling into camp in Rabat, Morocco.
Camp Opens with Early Arrivals in Morocco
According to team media officer Promise Efoghe, the Eagles’ camp opened on Sunday at the Rive Hotel in Rabat. By afternoon, eight players were already on ground, with two more joining later in the night.
Among the early arrivals were captain William Troost-Ekong, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Samuel Chukwueze, Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon, Tolu Arokodare, and Olakunle Olusegun. Efoghe also confirmed that Benjamin Frederick and Chidozie Awaziem were expected before midnight.
Training to Begin at Moulay El Hassan Complex
Head coach Eric Chelle and his technical crew are already in Rabat, with training sessions scheduled to hold at the Complexe Sportif Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan, a 22,000-seater stadium that will also host the semi-final clash on Thursday.
The team is expected to hold light drills early in the week before engaging in full tactical sessions as the game approaches.
Okoye, Ejuke Return to Strengthened Squad
Earlier this month, Chelle unveiled a 24-man squad for the playoff, featuring some notable returnees.
Maduka Okoye, Udinese’s in-form goalkeeper, is back in the fold after reclaiming his starting role in Serie A. His recall comes amid renewed calls for stability in Nigeria’s goalkeeping department following mixed performances from Stanley Nwabali.
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Also making a long-awaited comeback is Chidera Ejuke, the Sevilla winger whose electric pace and creativity have earned praise in La Liga. This marks his first Super Eagles call-up since 2021.
Road to North America 2026
Nigeria will face Gabon on Thursday, while Cameroon battle DR Congo at the El-Barid Stadium, also in Rabat. Winners from both ties will advance to the final playoff on November 16, where the victor will earn a spot in the inter-confederation playoffs for a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
After missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar, the Super Eagles are determined to reclaim their place on football’s biggest stage, having last featured at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
