Finidi George names NPFL wing-back with 12 assists dubbed Nigerian Dani Alves in first Super Eagles squad
Super Eagles coach Finidi George has released his first squad ahead of the WCQ, with NPFL wing-back Ismail Sodiq included.
Super Eagles coach Finidi George has named his first squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and it’s a mix of familiar faces and new talent led by NPFL star Sodiq Ismail.
The standout inclusion in Finidi’s 23-man squad is Sodiq, the Remo Stars defender who has been turning heads in the Nigerian Premier Football League, NPFL, with a remarkable 12 assists this season.
Finidi lists Ismail in Super Eagles list
The Remo Stars defender’s exceptional performances have earned him the moniker “the Nigerian Dani Alves” from one of Nigeria’s best youth coaches, and now he will have the chance to showcase his talents on the international stage.
“He is hardworking and has honed his craft for crosses,” Ajibolade Olumide told Pulse Sports during a chat. “He definitely is the best right back in the league and balanced in his overall game.”
Born and raised in Lagos, Sodiq’s journey to the top has been an inspiring one. After honing his skills on the streets, the young defender earned a place in the Remo Stars academy, where he has blossomed into one of the league’s standout performers.
Sodiq’s inclusion underlines Finidi’s desire to inject fresh blood into the Super Eagles setup as they begin their quest to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The wing-back will join the likes of Victor Osimhen, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Ademola Lookman in the squad, as Nigeria faces a tough opener against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on June 7th, followed by a trip to Benin Republic four days later.
Sodiq will be determined to seize his chance and make a strong impression on the international stage, as he looks to follow in the footsteps of his “Nigerian Dani Alves” moniker.
