# Chelle Omits Okoye and Iheanacho from Super Eagles Squad for Tanzania Coach Eric Chelle excludes key players despite Iheanacho's prolific scoring form in Turkey. - **Source:** [Premium Times Nigeria](https://www.premiumtimesng.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-07 - **Topic:** [sports](https://brifing.si/c/sports) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/85804f67-de55-494e-81e9-8551435b0004 ## Squad Selection Controversies Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has finalized a 24-man squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Tanzania. The announcement notably excludes goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and forward Kelechi Iheanacho. These omissions have sparked significant debate among fans and analysts regarding the team's tactical direction for the crucial November fixtures. ## Goalkeeping Roster Changes Maduka Okoye’s absence follows a challenging period with his Italian club, Udinese, which currently sits at the bottom of the Serie A table. The goalkeeper recently conceded multiple goals in consecutive league defeats. Chelle has opted for Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho, and Arthur Okonkwo to secure the defensive line for the upcoming matches. ## Iheanacho's Surprising Exclusion The decision to leave out Kelechi Iheanacho is particularly unexpected given his current form. The forward has recorded 17 league goals for his Turkish club, Bursaspor, and recently scored during an international friendly against Russia. Despite this prolific output, he failed to secure a spot in the competitive squad for the Tanzania double-header. ## Previous Availability Issues Okoye’s exclusion also follows scrutiny regarding his commitment during the September international window. The goalkeeper arrived late to the national camp after attending a club-related fashion event in Milan. While coach Chelle previously granted permission for this activity, the latest squad selection suggests a shift in priorities for the upcoming competitive qualifiers. ## Retained Core Players Despite the high-profile omissions, the core of the Super Eagles remains intact for the qualifiers. Captain Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Calvin Bassey have all been retained. Their experience will be vital as Nigeria aims to secure maximum points to strengthen their standing in the 2027 AFCON qualification group. ## New Faces Included The squad features fresh inclusions to bolster the team's depth, such as defender Chibuike Nwaiwu and midfielder Mubarak Suleiman. These additions reflect Chelle's intent to integrate new talent alongside established stars. The coaching staff is clearly looking to balance veteran leadership with emerging players to ensure tactical flexibility against the Tanzanian national side. ## Upcoming Match Schedule Nigeria is scheduled to host Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on November 13. The return leg will take place in Zanzibar at the Amman Stadium on November 17. These matches are critical for Nigeria’s path toward the 2027 tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. ## Strategic Qualification Goals The Super Eagles are under pressure to perform consistently to guarantee their place in the 2027 AFCON. By refining the squad and making difficult personnel choices, the coaching staff aims to build a more cohesive unit. Success in these two fixtures will be essential for maintaining momentum in the qualification campaign moving forward. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/923504-chelle-leaves-okoye-in-form-iheanacho-out-of-super-eagles-squad-for-tanzania-ties.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._