Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has sparked widespread debate among Nigerian football fans after releasing his 24-man squad for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon, with the notable exclusion of Trabzonspor striker Paul Onuachu.
Surprise Omission Despite Impressive Form
The squad announcement made on Saturday, November 8, comes ahead of Nigeria's must-win encounter against Gabon scheduled for November 13 at Stade Prince Heritier Moulay Hassan in Rabat. Despite being the current top scorer in the Turkish Super Lig with seven goals from eleven appearances, Onuachu finds himself left out of Chelle's plans.
The 31-year-old striker recently won the Turkish Super Lig Goal of the Month award in both August and September, cementing his status as one of the most in-form Nigerian strikers abroad. His last appearance for the national team came in June during the World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin under former coach Finidi George.
Strong Attack Despite Onuachu Absence
Coach Chelle's selected squad features three goalkeepers, eight defenders, five midfielders, and eight strikers. Leading the attack will be UEFA Champions League top scorer Victor Osimhen, who will be supported by Samuel Chukwueze - the same partnership that proved effective in the victory over Benin Republic.
The squad also sees the return of several key players including Ademola Lookman after serving his one-match suspension, while experienced winger Moses Simon brings his wealth of experience back into the team. Sevilla striker Akor Adams earns his place after scoring against Lesotho, and Tolu Arokodare returns following his impressive performance against Chelsea in the Carabao Cup last October.
Nigerian Fans Voice Their Reactions
The exclusion of the 2023 AFCON silver medalist has generated significant reaction across social media platforms, with many supporters questioning Chelle's decision.
One fan @OmoOwa_Prince expressed disappointment, stating: "Onuachu deserves a spot in this list. The guy has been outstanding for Trabzonspor. I also think Gift Orban should have been picked ahead of Ejuke. Gift is currently Hellas Verona's best player. Players should be picked based on form."
Another supporter @kaaaayd__ commented: "Good list. I would have picked Paul Onuachu over Tolu Arokodare. It seems the coach wants to play one striker. Let us see sha."
The criticism extended beyond Onuachu's omission, with @SamkenBDK adding: "No Onuachu, no Akinsanmiro. Alhassan Yusuf for federal character. Nonsense!"
The match against Gabon represents Nigeria's chance to secure Africa's sole ticket for the inter-continental playoffs after failing to claim an automatic qualification spot during the World Cup qualifiers that concluded last October. The Super Eagles will face the winner of the second semifinal between DR Congo and Cameroon if they overcome Gabon.
