Benjamin Frederick Joins 18‑Man Super Eagles Camp Ahead of WCQ Duels

A fresh boost has come into the Super Eagles’ preparatory camp as defender Benjamin Frederick arrived in Polokwane, South Africa ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers. His arrival was confirmed by the team’s media officer, Promise Efoghe, bringing the total number of players in camp to 18.

Before Frederick’s inclusion, the squad already featured names such as captain Troost Ekong, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Chrisantus Uche, Wilfred Ndidi, Bruno Onyemaechi and Terem Moffi. Also present were Moses Simon, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Frank Onyeka, Tolu Arokodare, Semi Ajayi, Stanley Nwabali, Adebayo Adeleye and Amas Obasogie.

The team gathered for their first training session on Tuesday evening at 6 pm. They are scheduled to face Lesotho away on Friday, 10 October, before hosting Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday, 14 October.

With just two matches left in the group stage, Nigeria currently occupy third place with 11 points three behind leaders Benin Republic and second‑placed South Africa.

Editorial

We believe the arrival of Benjamin Frederick underscores both the urgency and the depth of Nigeria’s ambition in this final stretch of World Cup qualification. Selecting 18 players with potential to make immediate impact is not merely about plugging gaps it reflects a strategy rooted in balance, youth and experience.

Frederick’s call‑up signals confidence in new talent. He may not yet carry the renown of Troost Ekong or Victor Osimhen, but fresh legs and fresh perspective can sometimes tilt margins. The presence of stalwarts such as Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze ensures that the squad maintains an experienced core while integrating reinforcements. That mix is crucial at this stage.

Training under pressure brings its own tests. The afternoon session at 6 pm hints at both discipline and stamina demanded of the players. We see it as a metaphor for what lies ahead: tight scheduling, physical stress, mental focus. Opponents like Lesotho and Benin might not be top‑ranked, but in qualifiers every match is fraught with danger and opportunity.

The standings paint a narrow path. With Nigeria sitting third on 11 points and trailing by three, there is no room for complacency. We anticipate that the coaching staff will lean on flexible tactics—sometimes conservative, sometimes bold—to navigate these final fixtures. The mental state of the team will matter as much as the physical preparation.

This moment invites more than reliance on reputation or individual brilliance. Nigeria must play as a cohesive unit, respond to pressure, and adapt swiftly to unfolding challenges. The arrival of Frederick is not just another name in the list—it is a reminder that each slot in camp carries weight. We believe that if unity, resolve and tactical discipline guide their play, the Super Eagles still have the firepower to reclaim their place at the top.<

Did You Know?

1. 
   
2. The Super Eagles have at least once previously used South Africa as a training base ahead of major tournaments, leveraging local facilities and climate similarity.
   
   
3. Benjamin Frederick is among several defenders recently from Nigeria’s domestic leagues who earned international call‑ups.
   
   
4. In Nigeria’s all‑time head‑to‑head record with Lesotho, they have never lost a competitive fixture.
   
   
5. Uyo venue for the home match versus Benin has hosted multiple high‑profile national team matches, becoming a growing hub for Nigerian football.
   
   
6. Since qualification formats changed, Nigeria has missed final qualification for the FIFA World Cup only twice (in 1994 and 2006).