The CSKA Moscow winger is expected to play a key role in Nigeria’s quest for a fourth continental title, but he will have to start from the bench in the first game
Super Eagles interim boss Austin Eguavoen has decided not to start talented winger Chidera Ejuke for Nigeria’s opening game in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations against Egypt.
Ejuke is a player Eguavoen rates highly, but the CSKA Moscow winger misses out from the starting lineup, with the coach going with Moses Simon and Samuel Chuwkueze as his wingmen.
Maduka Okoye takes his place in goal as expected, in what is his first appearance for Nigeria in a major competition.
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William Troost-Ekong captains the side, and he is partnered by Kenneth Omeruo, who is preferred ahead of Chidozie Awaziem as the other centre-back.
The full-backs pick themselves, with Eguavoen going for Ola Aina at right-back and Zaidu Sanusi at left-back. Joe Aribo, Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho are the three midfielders, while Union Berlin’s Taiwo Awoniyi leads the line.
