[ICYMI] 2026 World Cup Qualifier: Osimhen, Lookman, and Teammates Arrive in South Africa

At least 17 Super Eagles players, including key forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, have arrived in Polokwane, South Africa, as Nigeria steps up preparations for Friday’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.

The players reported to camp on Tuesday, a day after the arrival of the coaching and backroom staff, officially marking the start of the team’s training programme.

Those already in camp include William Troost-Ekong, Wilfred Ndidi, Bruno Onyemaechi, Terem Moffi, Moses Simon, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Frank Onyeka, and Tolu Arokodare. They are joined by returnee defender Semi Ajayi and goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali, Adebayo Adeleye, and Amas Obasogie, all of whom have linked up with the technical crew ahead of full team training sessions.

Nigeria currently sit third in Group C of the CAF World Cup qualifying series, with 11 points from eight matches. The Super Eagles must win their remaining two games and rely on favourable outcomes from South Africa and Benin Republic to keep their qualification chances alive.

The three-time African champions will take on Lesotho on Friday in Polokwane in what is widely seen as a must-win encounter.