Nigeria, Nov. 7 -- As the clock ticks toward 13 November, the Super Eagles stand on the brink of their biggest footballing examination in two years, a 2026 FIFA World Cup Africa play-off against Gabon in Morocco, with a potential showdown looming against either DR Congo or Cameroon.

Head coach Eric Chelle knows there will be no room for sentiment or tactical stagnation. Nigeria must go to war with form, fitness, and fearless momentum.

With several senior players back firing in Europe, and new blood exploding into relevance, Chelle's imminent list could feature major returnees and breakthrough first-call candidates capable of flipping Nigeria's fortunes on the continent's biggest qualifying stage.

Below, we spotlight those knocking hard...