Cyriel Dessers is set to make a return to the Super Eagles squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, with head coach Eric Chelle considering him over Paul Onuachu and Tolu Arokodare.
Although Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface remain the top-choice strikers, Dessers has now emerged as a likely backup option following his goal and assist in Rangers’ 3-1 Europa League victory over Fenerbahçe last week.
The former Feyenoord striker last featured for Nigeria a year ago in the World Cup playoff against Ghana, but his recent European form has strengthened his case for inclusion in the final squad list.
Editorial
Cyriel Dessers’ potential return to the Super Eagles is a strategic decision by Eric Chelle. While Onuachu and Arokodare offer aerial strength, Dessers provides a different dimension in attack, with his work rate, link-up play, and ability to score crucial goals in European competitions.
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With Osimhen and Boniface guaranteed starters, the battle for the backup striker role is heating up. If Dessers maintains his goal-scoring form, he could cement his place in the squad for the long term.
For Nigeria, depth in the striking department is crucial, especially with the tough World Cup qualifiers ahead.
Did You Know?
- Cyriel Dessers scored 22 goals for Feyenoord in the 2021/22 season, making him the top scorer of the UEFA Europa Conference League that year.
- Paul Onuachu has been battling injuries this season, reducing his playing time at Trabzonspor.
- Tolu Arokodare plays for Genk, the same club that produced Super Eagles stars Wilfred Ndidi and Paul Onuachu.
- Nigeria is still searching for its first win in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, after drawing their first two matches.
- Eric Chelle is under pressure to secure victories against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, as dropping more points could harm Nigeria’s qualification chances.
