Nigeria is gearing up for the upcoming World Cup. The African giant has shown their strength in the qualifiers and will be keen on translating that into success in Russia.
The Super Eagles might not boast one-star name to look for inspiration, as Egypt does with Mohamed Salah, but what Nigeria has instead is a squad of experienced players. Several of their men are either in Europe's top-five leagues or are bossing the country's domestic competition. Gernot Rohr has now chosen a squad he believes will bring pride to their nation.
Coach's objective
Winning the World Cup will not be a realistic target, but getting out of their group will be a tough hill that can be overcome. Having been grouped with Argentina, Croatia, and Iceland; Nigeria could easily shock any of those three sides to grab that second qualification spot – or first.
New faces
Simeon Nwankwo is an uncapped Nigerian striker, so his inclusion will definitely attract attention. However, he has enjoyed a good season in Serie A, scoring seven goals for Crotone.
Veterans
John Obi Mikel took up his deserved spot on this list and should be the leader to guide this African powerhouse. The Tianjin Teda midfielder's experience will also be key for the Super Eagles.
Major absences
Despite being Nigeria's most-capped player in history, Vincent Enyeama was left out. There were calls for his call-up, but Rohr snubbed the veteran goalkeeper.
Throwback to when Nigeria's goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama wanted to touch Lionel Messi to check if he's human. pic.twitter.com/AK2RXyiBUD
— Football__Tweet (@Football__Tweet) May 14, 2018
Full squad list
Goalkeepers: Francis Uzoho (Deportivo La Coruna), Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Enyimba), Daniel Akpeyi (Chippa United).
Defenders: William Troost-Ekong and Abdullahi Shehu (Bursaspor), Tyronne Ebuehi (Ado Den Haag), Elderson Echiejile (Cercle Brugge KSV), Bryan Idowu (Amkar Perm), Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes FC), Leon Balogun (Brighton), Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa).
Midfielders: Mikel John Obi (Tianjin Teda), Ogenyi Onazi (Trabzonspor), Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City), Oghenekaro Etebo (Las Palmas), John Ogu (Hapoel Be'er Sheva), Joel Obi (Torino, Italy).
Forwards: Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow), Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City), Victor Moses (Chelsea), Odion Ighalo (Changchun Yatai), Alex Iwobi (Arsenal), Simeon Nwankwo (Crotone).
