The Super Eagles have officially announced their starting lineup for the international friendly against Egypt today at the Cairo International Stadium, opting for a heavily rotated, second-string squad. Head Coach Eric Chelle is clearly prioritizing player conservation and tactical assessment, allowing key stars like Victor Osimhen (who is yet to join the camp) and others to rest ahead of the crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers this weekend.
The lineup features several fringe players and recent call-ups, providing them a critical opportunity to impress the technical crew. The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:00 PM West African Time (WAT).
The lineup, confirmed via the official Super Eagles account, showcases an experimental feel, particularly in the midfield and attack:
Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali (Despite a recent minor fitness concern, he was passed fit to start).
Defence: The back four features Bright Osayi-Samuel and Zaidu Sanusi as the full-backs, with Igoh Ogbu and Chidozie Awaziem anchoring the central defense.
Midfield: The engine room sees Frank Onyeka and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru paired with new call-up Ebenezer Akinsanmiro and Raphael Onyedika Nwadike (The full name of Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika is Raphael Onyedika Nwadike, explaining the mention of “Nwadika” in the earlier reports).
Attack: The strike force is led by Paul Onuachu and winger Chidera Ejuke.
The formation, as reported in other sources, appears to be a 4-3-3 (or a similar variation), allowing Chelle to observe the chemistry between the new and returning players.
Key Player Notes
The omission of regulars like Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman from the starting XI confirms the rotational strategy.
The inclusion of Ebenezer Akinsanmiro and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru offers Italy-based duos a chance to make their mark.
Substitutes Bench
Chelle has a strong bench available, indicating he plans to utilize the unlimited substitutions allowed in this practice friendly:
Goalkeepers: Francis Uzoho, Amas Obasogie
Outfield: Wilfred Ndidi, Semi Ajayi, Ademola Lookman, Cyriel Dessers, Onyemaechi, Usman Muhammed, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Akoh, and Salim Fago Lawal.
This friendly is the final tune-up for Nigeria before they depart for their AFCON base in Fez, Morocco, on Thursday, where they will begin their tournament campaign on December 23 against Tanzania in Group C.
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