Nigeria World Cup 2018 squad and team guide

William Ekong celebrates
Nigeria may struggle to get out of their group Credit: afp

Here we take a look at Nigeria's World Cup squad and the other things it will be handy to know.

Nigeria's World Cup squad - the 23 names

Goalkeepers: Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Daniel Akpeyi, Francis Uzoho

Defenders: William Ekong, Leon Balogun, Bryan Idowu, Chidozie, Awaziem, Abdullahi Shehu, Elderson Echiejile, Tyronne Ebuehi

Midfielders: John Obi Mikel, Ogenyi Onazi, John Ogu, Wilfred Ndidi, Oghenekaro Etebo, Joel Obi

Forwards: Odion Ighalo, Ahmed Musa, Victor Moses, Alex Iwobi, Kelechi Iheanacho, Simeon Nwankwo

What odds are Nigeria to win the World Cup?

250/1

Who's the coach?

Gernot Rohr had managed three other African nations before taking over the Super Eagles in 2016. Qualified with something to spare.

Who's the star?

Captain John Obi Mikel has bags of experience and presence in central midfield. Chelsea's Victor Moses, on the other hand, perhaps has more x-factor.

Best thing about them

Composure and solidity in midfield, plus direct running up front from Alex Iwobi and Kelechi Iheanacho, suggests a team that could cause trouble on the breaks.

Worst thing about them

With the exception of Elderson Echiéjilé, the defensive players are young and raw. Few have big-time experience.

You may recognise...

Central midfielder Wilfred 'Yes' Ndidi was brought by Leicester for the impossible task of replacing N'Golo Kante. Likes a tackle (and a red card).

Cameramen will be picking out...

CAF recently named Nigeria's fans as the continent's best. Expect lots of green and white wigs.

Fans' favourite chant

Sa Ma Sin Wa Lo (roughly translated as 'Lead us into battle').

On-field prediction

The lowest-ranked of the African teams looks unlikely to get out of a tough group.

Off-field prediction

Hopefully no admin cock-ups, like qualifying game forfeit for fielding an ineligible player.