Super Eagles and Remo Stars goalkeeper, Kayode Bankole, has expressed delight after being included in Eric Chelle’s final 23-man squad for Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The 22-year-old NPFL standout was named alongside Chippa United’s Stanley Nwabali and Singida Black Stars’ Amas Obasogie as one of three goalkeepers selected for the crucial fixtures after coach Chelle trimmed his initial 39-man provisional list.
Taking to his X page on Wednesday to express his excitement about his maiden call-up to the national team, Bankole wrote; “I’m more than excited and honoured to have gotten my first call up to the Super Eagles team ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.
“Thanks to everyone for the support. Now, let’s get to work. It’s time to get the World Cup ticket for our fatherland.”
Kayode’s inclusion comes as recognition for his consistent performances for Daniel Ogunmodede’s Remo Stars side in the Nigeria Professional Football League, making him one of just four new invitees in Chelle’s squad alongside Tolu Arokodare, Papa Daniel Mustapha and Igoh Ogbu.
The Super Eagles will face group leaders Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 before returning to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo to host Zimbabwe four days later on March 25.
These fixtures are crucial for Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign, with the three-time African champions currently sitting fifth in Group C and needing consecutive victories to boost their chances of securing qualification for the 2026 tournament to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
While it would be difficult to displace Nwabali, the call-up represents a significant milestone in Bankole’s career and an opportunity to showcase his talents on the international stage as the Super Eagles aim to overcome their difficult start to the qualifying series.
