Nigeria is set to return to action in June with two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, following two draws in the opening fixtures against Lesotho and Zimbabwe in November last year. The Super Eagles currently sit third due to those results but have a chance to climb the standings with upcoming matches against second-placed South Africa and bottom-of-the-group Benin. These fixtures provide a good opportunity to earn more points.
Despite losing in the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeria showcased their quality throughout the tournament and will be looking to demonstrate that again as they aim to qualify for their first World Cup since 2018. The 23-man squad for the upcoming qualifiers, announced in late May, includes experienced, world-class players and promising young talent.
In this article, we highlight four young stars to watch out for:
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Fisayo Dele-Bashiru
Dele-Bashiru earned his first call-up to the Nigerian national team in October 2023 and delivered a strong performance in his sole appearance, providing an assist in a 3-2 victory over Mozambique. Although called up for subsequent friendlies against Ghana and Mali, the midfielder remained on the bench for both games.
After moving to Turkey from Sheffield Wednesday last summer, Dele-Bashiru had a promising first season with Hatayspor, scoring nine goals and providing four assists in 39 appearances. His crucial opening goal on the final day helped his team secure survival in the league. Likely to add to his national team appearances in the upcoming qualifiers, Dele-Bashiru could become a mainstay in the squad for years to come.
Alhassan Yusuf
Yusuf has been called up for Nigeria multiple times and made his first appearances for the Super Eagles during AFCON, featuring in four matches. He played a significant role in Royal Antwerp’s season, making 42 appearances, including seven in the Champions League, and totaling 115 appearances since joining the Belgian side from IFK Göteborg in 2021.
A top-performing combative midfielder, Yusuf ranks in the top 10 percent for duels won, aerial duels won, and recoveries per 90 minutes in his league this season. He aims to replicate his impressive form in the upcoming qualifiers.
Sadiq Ismael
The 21-year-old defender was surprisingly overlooked by former manager Jose Peseiro for AFCON but has finally earned his place in the squad for the upcoming games against South Africa and Benin. With Ola Aina left out due to injury concerns, Ismael has a significant opportunity to establish himself as a consistent starter for Nigeria.
Playing as a wing-back for Remo Stars, Ismael helped his team secure an impressive third place, known for his attacking prowess, passing range, and crossing ability, recording 10 assists this season.
Benjamin Tanimu
Benjamin Tanimu received his first call-up to the Nigeria squad for the friendlies against Ghana and Mali in March and played a part in the 2-1 victory over Ghana. His impressive performances at the club level have not gone unnoticed by the Nigerian Football Federation, and he will be looking to make his mark once again in the upcoming qualifiers.
These four youngsters are poised to play crucial roles in Nigeria’s quest for World Cup qualification. Keep an eye on them as they aim to impress on the international stage.
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by Osondu
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