WATCH: England-born star honours Nigeria call-up, arrives from France for Super Eagles clash with Benin, Rwanda

England-born defender Gabriel Osho has reported for duty with Nigeria’s Super Eagles in Abidjan as they prepare for two pivotal Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Benin and Rwanda, News Direct reports.

The Auxerre centre-back is among eight players already in camp, eager for a potential cap-tying debut.

Osho, who previously had to pull out of a March call-up due to injury, has now been handed another chance to represent Nigeria after stepping in for the injured Semi Ajayi.

https://x.com/soccernet_ng/status/1856217681986281695?t=sKv5g3b9f4U5P3NzqcFTyg&s=19

Osho is in line to earn his first Super Eagles cap when Nigeria clash with Benin’s Cheetahs on November 14 at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan.

In addition to Osho, the Super Eagles camp has seen the arrival of Moses Simon, Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, Bruno Onyemaechi, Samuel Chukwueze, Amas Obasogie, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.

According to team officials, the remaining squad members are expected to arrive by Tuesday, ensuring a full complement for interim head coach Austin Eguavoen as he prepares his 23-man squad for these crucial encounters.

Nigeria stand just one point away from sealing qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with the possibility of clinching the top spot in Group D.

Following the game in Abidjan, Nigeria will return home to host Rwanda on November 18 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, concluding their AFCON qualifying series.

Osho, a former Reading development squad captain, has remained committed to representing Nigeria despite his English roots, a decision confirmed by his early arrival in camp.

The 26-year-old will not require an association switch to play for Nigeria as he has never appeared for England at any level, making him eligible for the Super Eagles without delay.

Osho’s selection follows interest from former Nigeria coach Finidi George, who initially named him for a squad earlier in the year, though injury forced his withdrawal.

Now healthy and ready, he faces competition from established defenders Calvin Bassey, and William Troost-Ekong, as well as fellow new invitee Victor Collins for a place in Eguavoen’s starting XI.