Super Eagles likely XI against CAR in their battle for redemption

The three-time African champions will be seeking to redeem their battered image when they take on the Wild Beasts in the second leg of their 2022 World Cup qualifier 

Nigeria will be looking for immediate revenge in the return leg of their Group C 2022 World Cup qualifier against the Central African Republic.

The Super Eagles 40-year unbeaten record of not losing a home game in a World Cup qualifier came to an end on Thursday evening following a 1-0 loss to Les Fauves.

Gernot Rohr’s men went into the game as the clear favourites against a side ranked 90 places below them in the FIFA ranking, but Raoul Savoy’s men didn’t get the memo as Karl Namnganda’s 90th-minute strike sealed a famous win for the less-fancied side.

However, the three-time AFCON champions have a chance to set things right as the return leg takes place today (Sunday) in Douala.

And ahead of the game, Soccernet predicts Super Eagles likely lineup.

Rohr has revealed there will not be many changes to the team that plays on Sunday despite last Thursday’s shocking loss.

Goalkeeper:  Maduka Okoye was on the bench last Thursday after he arrived late to training. But he could reclaim his place in goal with Francis Uzoho dropping back to the bench.

However, Uzoho was not at fault for the goal, so he could still retain his place.

Defenders: Leon Balogun and William Troost Ekong were at fault for the goal on Thursday, but Rohr will likely stick with them as his centre-back pairing.

However, Jamilu Collins could drop out for new boy Calvin Bassey, whose attacking instinct and crossing qualities will definitely be needed on Sunday.

Ola Aina played right-back, and it should stay the same on Sunday.

Midfielders: Due to lack of options, Rohr will probably select the same trio that played on Thursday. Frank Onyeka is expected to partner Joe Aribo in the central midfield, with Kelechi Ihenacho playing as an attacking midfielder.

Strikers: Victor Osimhen will lead the line despite his ineffective performance on Thursday. Moses Simon is one of Rohr’s trusted players, but his average performance in the first leg could see him drop out for Samuel Kalu.

Chidera Ejuke was one of the few players that impressed in Thursday’s loss, and that could see him retain his place, although Ahmed Musa could also come in.

Super Eagles probable XI: Okoye, Aina, Balogun, Ekong, Sanusi, Onyeka, Aribo, Iheanacho, Kalu, Osimhen, Ejuke.