Finidi George Announces Maiden Call-Up for Super Eagles Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers
Exciting news has emerged from the camp of the senior national team of Nigeria as Coach Finidi George has issued his first call-up to players ahead of the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic in June.
Following his appointment as the substantive coach of the team, Finidi George, who previously served as assistant to former coach Jose Peseiro for 20 months, has chosen to retain a significant number of players who were part of the team during the Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire.
Despite the disappointing 1-2 defeat to the hosts in the final, these players have shown promise and are key to the team’s future success.
The initial call-up includes a total of 35 players, although this list is expected to be trimmed down to 25 players for the upcoming qualifiers. The final squad will be made public in two weeks’ time after necessary deliberations and assessments.
Clubs of the players on the list have already received the letters of invitation, indicating the serious intent and preparation for these crucial matches. Notably, some players have been directly called up based on their exceptional performances and contributions to the team.
Coach Finidi George, who previously served in an interim capacity during international friendlies against Ghana and Mali, is set to commence official duties this week as he signs a one-year deal.
The selection of his assistants is still under review by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), with Finidi proposing three foreign and two indigenous coaches to join his backroom staff.
As excitement builds up for the World Cup qualifiers, Nigerian football fans eagerly anticipate a successful campaign under the guidance of Coach Finidi George and his new coaching team.