Super Eagles starting XI: Aina, Lookman, Osimhen, Onyeka, Iwobi start; home debut for Fredrick

Allnigeriasoccer.com can exclusively report that Eric Chelle has named the Super Eagles starting XI for Saturday’s crucial 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifying clash against Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.

With Nigeria sitting fourth in the group, nine points behind leaders South Africa, the fixture represents a must-win encounter to keep the nation’s World Cup hopes alive.

In goal, Stanley Nwabali returns to the starting lineup after missing recent international fixtures, bringing experience and composure to the last line of defence. 

The backline features Ola Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi as full-backs, offering both defensive solidity and the ability to support attacking transitions down the flanks. 

Central defence is marshaled by Calvin Bassey and Benjamin Fredrick, with the latter making his home debut for the three-time African champions. 

The midfield sees Wilfred Ndidi anchoring the central area with his trademark ball-winning ability and positional intelligence. 

He will be partnered by Frank Onyeka, who provides energy, box-to-box coverage, and the ability to link defence and attack effectively. 

On the wings, Moses Simon and Alex Iwobi are tasked with stretching the opposition, delivering precise crosses, and creating opportunities for the forwards. 

Leading the attack, Ademola Lookman is expected to provide skillful link-up play, creativity, and goal-scoring threat, despite his inactivity at Atalanta in the new season. 

He will operate alongside Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s talisman and primary goal scorer, whose pace, movement, and finishing ability have made him a constant threat in the qualifiers. 

The pairing of Lookman and Osimhen combines flair and clinical efficiency, giving the Super Eagles multiple attacking options.

Super Eagles' starting XI : Stanley Nwabali; Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Benjamin Fredrick, Bruno Onyemaechi; Wilfred Ndidi (C), Frank Onyeka, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi; Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen.

Wale Adejumo

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