Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has unveiled his first 39-man provisional squad ahead of Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March.
One of the standout talking points from the list is the surprise inclusion of Anthony Junior Dennis, a relatively unknown midfielder receiving his first-ever international call-up.
Who is Anthony Dennis?
Born in Kaduna, Nigeria, over 20 years ago, Dennis began his football journey playing street football, like many Nigerian talents. His raw skills earned him a spot at several local academies before joining HB Academy in Abuja, where he refined his game.
His performances caught the attention of Turkish scouts, leading to a move to Göztepe SK in January 2023. Despite joining the club’s U19 setup, Dennis quickly rose through the ranks, making his professional debut in January 2024.
The defensive midfielder played a crucial role in Göztepe’s promotion to the Turkish Süper Lig, making 15 league appearances, scoring two goals, and earning a contract extension until 2027.
What Makes Him Special?
Dennis is a defensive midfield dynamo with:
• Excellent passing range
• Tough tackling ability
• Endless energy
• Composure beyond his years
With Nigeria stacked with midfield options, Dennis’s inclusion signals that Eric Chelle is ready to give fresh talents a chance as the Super Eagles prepare for a new era.
As the list is trimmed to 23 players, all eyes will be on whether the rising star makes the final squad.
