Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle Names Starting Eleven for Debut Clash Against Rwanda
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has announced his starting line-up ahead of his first match in charge of Nigeria, as they face Rwanda in a crucial World Cup qualifier this evening, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Malian tactician has kept faith with a core group of experienced Super Eagles players in his 23-man squad, with Kayode Bankole, Igor Ogbu, Papa Daniel Mustapha, and Genk striker Tolu Arokodare the only new faces.
Chelle has opted for a traditional 4-2-3-1 formation for the must-win encounter against the Amavubi at the Stade Amahoro in Kigali.
Stanley Nwabali keeps his place as the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper. The Chippa United shot-stopper has kept seven clean sheets in 19 matches for the South African club this season.
Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina, captain William Troost-Ekong, Fulham’s Calvin Bassey, and Fenerbahçe’s Bright Osayi-Samuel make up the back four protecting Nwabali’s goal. The quartet has played together before, giving them the advantage of an already established understanding.
In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi will anchor the team. Both players bring experience and composure, tasked with controlling the tempo of the game.
Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman takes on the playmaker role, positioned slightly ahead of Ndidi and Iwobi. He will be responsible for creating chances for the forwards.
Nantes winger Moses Simon and AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze will operate from the left and right flanks, respectively, adding pace and width to the Super Eagles’ attack.
Leading the line is Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, who will spearhead the attack as Nigeria looks to secure all three points against Rwanda.
