The Super Eagles will officially open their training camp on Sunday as they prepare for a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matchday five encounter against the Amavubi of Rwanda. With Nigeria still searching for their first victory in the qualifiers, the match at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Friday, March 21, has become a must-win for the team.
The invited players are expected to arrive in Kigali from their respective clubs across the world, where they will commence full training sessions under the guidance of head coach Eric Chelle. The game against Rwanda is the first of two key fixtures for the Super Eagles, as they will return home to face Zimbabwe in another critical encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday, March 25.
Chelle has released a 39-man provisional squad for both games, featuring a mix of experienced players and emerging talents. However, the squad will be trimmed to 23 players before the end of the week. With the stakes higher than ever, the coaching staff is keen on selecting the best possible team to turn Nigeria’s campaign around.
The Super Eagles have endured a difficult start to their qualification journey, managing just three points from a possible 12. Despite boasting a strong squad, they have drawn three matches and lost one, placing them in fifth position in Group C. This disappointing run has put immense pressure on the team, with fans demanding improved performances to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
As the team sets up camp in Kigali, all eyes will be on how they respond to the challenge ahead. The Super Eagles have historically been one of Africa’s most dominant teams in World Cup qualifiers, but their current struggles have raised concerns about their chances of making it to the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 2026.
The game against Rwanda presents an opportunity to secure a much-needed victory, and the players are expected to approach the fixture with a sense of urgency. While Nigeria has had the upper hand in past meetings with Rwanda, their recent form suggests that nothing can be taken for granted.
Several key players will be expected to step up in these crucial games, including Victor Osimhen, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Samuel Chukwueze. The team’s attacking struggles have been a major talking point, with the inability to convert chances costing them valuable points. Fans will hope that the forwards can rediscover their goal-scoring touch and lead Nigeria to victory.
The midfield battle will also be key, with Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi expected to provide stability and creativity in the center of the park. Their ability to control possession and dictate the tempo will be crucial against a determined Rwandan side.
Defensively, the Super Eagles must remain solid and avoid the lapses that have plagued them in previous games. The backline, led by William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey, must stay organized and ensure that Rwanda does not exploit any weaknesses. Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho is also expected to play a key role in keeping the team secure at the back.
Head coach Eric Chelle has faced increasing scrutiny over the team’s performances, and these upcoming matches will serve as a major test of his tactical approach. The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has expressed confidence in his ability to turn things around, but results will ultimately determine his fate.
Former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa has also weighed in on the team’s struggles, emphasizing the importance of securing a victory against Rwanda. Speaking to reporters in Ilorin ahead of Kano Pillars’ league clash with Kwara United, Musa described the upcoming match as a turning point for the Super Eagles.
“The important game is Rwanda,” Musa stated. “If we can get the three points from that match, it’s going to be a turning point for us. But it is not just a job for the Super Eagles alone—every Nigerian must be involved because we need their support.”
Musa’s call for unity underscores the significance of fan support in football. The Super Eagles have historically thrived on the backing of their passionate supporters, and the upcoming fixtures present an opportunity for the nation to rally behind the team.
After the clash with Rwanda, the focus will quickly shift to the match against Zimbabwe in Uyo. Playing at home offers the Super Eagles an added advantage, and they will be expected to deliver a convincing performance in front of their fans. A strong showing in these two games could reignite their qualification hopes and restore confidence within the squad.
Training sessions in Kigali will be intense, with players looking to impress the coaching staff and secure a place in the final 23-man squad. Fitness levels, tactical discipline, and team chemistry will all be closely monitored as Nigeria fine-tunes its strategy for the upcoming games.
The Super Eagles’ qualification campaign has not gone as planned, but history has shown that they have the resilience to bounce back from difficult situations. In past World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria has faced adversity but found ways to deliver when it mattered most. Fans will be hoping for a similar turnaround in the coming weeks.
As the countdown to the decisive matches begins, Nigerian supporters remain hopeful that their team will rise to the challenge and prove why they are considered one of Africa’s footballing powerhouses. These two games could define Nigeria’s World Cup qualification journey, and the Super Eagles must seize the opportunity to get their campaign back on course.
Football analysts have pointed out that the Super Eagles’ main challenge lies in consistency. Despite boasting a squad filled with top European-based players, the team has struggled to dominate games. Experts believe that a well-structured tactical approach and better finishing in front of goal will be key to securing maximum points.
Additionally, the leadership within the squad will play a vital role in motivating the team. Senior players such as Musa, Ndidi, and Ekong must take responsibility in guiding the younger players and instilling a winning mentality. With the right mindset and preparation, the Super Eagles have what it takes to turn their fortunes around.
The next two weeks will be crucial for Nigeria’s World Cup aspirations. The footballing world will be watching to see if the Super Eagles can rise above their struggles and prove that they belong on the world’s biggest stage. The time for excuses is over—Nigeria must deliver.
