Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has made a bold decision ahead of today’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash against Rwanda, leaving out long-time captain William Troost-Ekong from the starting lineup.
The veteran defender, who has been a mainstay in the Super Eagles’ backline for over a decade, will make way for promising youngster Benjamin Fredrick.
The 19-year-old has been impressed by recent friendlies in London and Moscow and will partner Fulham’s Calvin Bassey in central defence at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
Troost-Ekong’s omission may not be unconnected to his costly error that gifted Zimbabwe a late equaliser in Nigeria’s last qualifier at the same venue. Chelle is now banking on fresh legs to steady the defence in what is considered a must-win game for Nigeria.
Greece-based Bruno Onyemaechi will start at left-back, ahead of Felix Agu, while Torino’s Ola Aina remains on the right. Wilfred Ndidi, back to full fitness with Besiktas, will captain the team and anchor the midfield alongside Brentford’s Frank Onyeka and Fulham’s Alex Iwobi.
Upfront, in-form striker Victor Osimhen, who has scored twice in his last two games for Galatasaray, leads the line. Nantes forward Moses Simon and the reigning African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, will support him on the flanks.
Lookman, who has been sidelined due to a transfer dispute with Atalanta, will be making his first competitive appearance of the new season. His inclusion adds firepower to Nigeria’s attack as the team looks to secure maximum points.
Kickoff is scheduled for 5:00 pm Nigerian time in Uyo:
Nigeria XI Vs Rwanda: Nwabali; Aina, Fredrick, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Onyeka, Iwobi, Lookman; Simon, Osimhen.
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