The Super Eagles have released their starting lineup for Friday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho.
The team, led by captain William Troost-Ekong, is under pressure to win, as they currently sit third in the group with 11 points, three behind leaders Benin Republic and South Africa (both on 14 points).
Only the group winner qualifies automatically for the World Cup.
Head coach Eric Chelle has opted for a bold, attacking setup, pairing Victor Osimhen and Tolu Arokodare in a two-man forward line.
This attack will be supplied by creative midfielders Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon.
Stanley Nwabali remains in goal, shielded by a defense that includes Calvin Bassey and Benjamin Fredrick. Captain Ekong and Wilfred Ndidi complete the backline, with Ndidi again being deployed in a “deeper defensive role.”
Ademola Lookman and Tochukwu Onyemaechi were also named in the starting XI and are expected to provide width and pace.
The bench features a mix of experience and youth, with options including Samuel Chukwueze, Semi Ajayi, Frank Onyeka, Terem Moffi, and Bright Osayi-Samuel available to impact the match if needed.
Nigeria Starting XI:
Nwabali (GK); Fredrick, Ndidi, Ekong (C), Bassey; Onyemaechi, Iwobi, Simon, Lookman; Osimhen, Arokodare.
Substitutes:
Adebayo, Sanusi, Ajayi, Onyeka, Chukwueze, Abdullahi, Obasogie, Uche, Moffi, Adams.
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