Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has announced his starting lineup for Friday evening's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
With Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye arriving late in camp and unable to take part in any training sessions, Chelle had little difficulty deciding who would start between the posts.
Stanley Nwabali, who starred for Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, earns his 35th cap and will start in goal.
Nwabali's selection means Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo is unlikely to make his competitive debut for the Super Eagles against Madagascar.
Nwabali will be protected by a back four of Ola Aina, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and Bruno Onyemaechi.
In midfield, Fulham's Alex Iwobi will partner captain Wilfred Ndidi, while Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze will provide attacking support from more advanced positions.
Up front, Venezia summer signing Akor Adams will be partnered by in-form Al-Ittihad striker George Ilenikhena, who is making his senior debut.
Rangers centre-back Emmanuel Fernandez will no longer be eligible to represent his country of birth, England if he comes off the bench for his competitive Nigeria debut.
Nigeria's starting lineup v Madagascar: Nwabali; Ola Aina, Semi Ajayi, Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Iwobi; Chukwueze, Lookman; Adams, Ilenikhena
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