New England Revolution Midfielder Bolsters Nigeria’s Squad as Team Intensifies Preparations for Must-Win Clash
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have received a significant boost ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, with the arrival of New England Revolution midfielder Alhassan Yusuf in Kigali. The 24-year-old’s inclusion completes the 23-man squad as head coach Eric Chelle looks to fine-tune his team for Friday’s high-stakes encounter at the Amahoro Stadium.
Nigeria opened their training camp in Rwanda on Sunday night, with team officials, technical staff, and six players arriving first. Since then, the squad has been put through rigorous preparations, including intense gym sessions and on-pitch drills. A video circulating online shows the players being put through their paces, highlighting the team’s determination to secure a vital victory.
Alhassan’s arrival adds depth and versatility to Nigeria’s midfield options. The former Belgian Pro League star, who now plies his trade in Major League Soccer (MLS) with the New England Revolution, has already made an impact in his short time in the United States. Deployed in both defensive and left midfield roles across four appearances, his adaptability could prove invaluable for Chelle’s tactical plans.
The midfielder’s journey to this point has been marked by resilience. After impressing at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, Alhassan suffered an injury during Nigeria’s match against Equatorial Guinea, which sidelined him and cost him his place in the squad. However, his move to the MLS has reignited his career, and he now returns to the national team setup with a point to prove.
For Nigeria, the match against Rwanda is a must-win. Currently sitting fifth in Group C, the Super Eagles need maximum points to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive. With the squad now at full strength, Chelle will be hoping his players can deliver a performance that reignites their campaign.
As the countdown to Friday’s clash continues, all eyes will be on Alhassan and his teammates to see if they can rise to the occasion. For Nigerian fans, the hope is that this match will mark the beginning of a turnaround in their quest to reach the 2026 World Cup.
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