Super Eagles: Stars Advise Eric Chelle to Recall Player to Salvage Nigeria’s World Cup Dreams

• Super Eagles players reportedly urged coach Eric Chelle to recall Leon Balogun to Nigeria's national football squad
• The defender played 23 games for Rangers this season and Nigeria would sorely need his fitness and current form
• After conceding a late goal, Nigeria drew with Zimbabwe to put their 2026 World Cup qualification hopes in danger

Super Eagles stars are eager to see a veteran former defender back in the mix after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Nigeria conceded a late goal during the game on March 25, 2025, resulting in players reportedly urging coach Eric Chelle to bolster the defences with Leon Balogun.

Balogun has been in fine form for Scottish giants Rangers this season, featuring in 23 matches across all competitions for the former Europa League finalists, according to Transfermarkt statistics.

However, the 36-year-old was left out of Nigeria’s recent World Cup qualifiers, with the Super Eagles securing a 2-0 win against Rwanda before dropping crucial points in the draw with Zimbabwe.

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With the defence struggling in key moments, leaving their qualification hopes under threat, Super Eagles players believe Balogun’s experience and leadership could be vital in their next matches.

Balogun’s resurgence at Rangers

After a difficult period marked by injuries and inconsistent club form, Balogun has enjoyed a remarkable comeback at Rangers this season.

The 36-year-old defender’s performances in the Scottish Premiership have proven that he still has the quality to compete at the highest level.

Despite his age, Balogun has demonstrated his defensive solidity, composure and fitness this season, earning praise from fans and pundits.

His Super Eagles exclusion from the recent qualifiers raised questions, especially after Nigeria struggled with their defences vs Zimbabwe.

The late equaliser in Uyo highlighted the need for an experienced defender like Balogun to organise the backline during critical moments.

Players frustrated over Nigeria's defensive lapses

Several Super Eagles players were said to have expressed their frustration over the defensive lapses that cost Nigeria two vital points in the race to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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One unnamed player shared his thoughts with OwnGoal Nigeria at the airport, stating that the team collectively agreed that a player like Balogun could have helped secure their victory.

"Granted, Balogun might not be able to play two games in four days, but he can help us see out crucial moments. We saw how Jose Peseiro used Kenneth Omeruo at AFCON when we needed to close a game down."

Will Eric Chelle call Balogun

With Nigeria’s World Cup hopes hanging in the balance, coach Eric Chelle faces a crucial decision regarding the team’s defensive setup.

The Super Eagles are fourth in their qualifying Group C with seven points, behind Rwanda and the Benin Republic who are joint-second.

As the Super Eagles prepare for their next matches, Chelle could bring in the veteran defender to ensure Nigeria reach the World Cup proper.

Boniface begs Nigerians for patience

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Earlier, Legit.ng also reported that Victor Boniface begged the fans after scoring on his return to Bayer Leverkusen after a frustrating international break with the Super Eagles.

The Nigerian star made his Super Eagles debut in September 2023 and has yet to score his debut goal despite delivering consistently for the reigning German champions.

Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at Legit.ng.

Source: Legit.ng