The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to resume their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign on Tuesday with a crucial match against Rwanda, Soccernet.ng reports.
Following their impressive 3-0 victory over Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, where goals from Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen thrilled the home fans, Nigeria will be looking to build on their winning momentum.
With the clash against the Wasps of Rwanda approaching, speculation is mounting over the potential starting lineup. Key questions surround whether interim coach Augustine Eguavoen will reward Osimhen, who made an immediate impact with a goal after just 19 minutes off the bench, with a starting role. Likewise, fans are eager to see if Alex Iwobi will retain his place.
Eguavoen is expected to stick with the 3-4-3 formation that worked so effectively against Benin, but there could be a few tactical adjustments to optimize the squad’s performance for the away fixture at the Stade Amahoro.
Goalkeeper:
Stanley Nwabali, who impressed with several crucial saves in Uyo, is expected to keep his place between the sticks, once again keeping Udinese’s Maduka Okoye on the bench.
Defence:
In central defence, captain William Troost-Ekong will continue to marshal the backline alongside West Brom’s Semi Ajayi and Fulham’s versatile Calvin Bassey. This solid trio will be tasked with keeping Rwanda’s attackers at bay.
Midfield:
A potential shake-up in midfield could see Lazio's Fisayo Dele-Bashiru coming in to replace Iwobi. The dynamic midfielder's energy and forward runs could provide the Super Eagles with the creativity needed to unlock Rwanda's defence. Brentford’s Frank Onyeka is also expected to replace Wilfred Ndidi, who requested for a substitution during the game.
On the flanks, Ola Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi are likely to retain their starting roles after their standout performances in Uyo. Both wingbacks played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s attacking transitions and defensive solidity.
Attack:
Up front, Eguavoen is expected to stick with the potent combination of Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman on the wings, providing pace and trickery to torment Rwanda’s full-backs.
However, a key change could see new Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen promoted to the starting XI after his impactful cameo against Benin.
Osimhen's goal-scoring prowess and physical presence could prove decisive in breaking down Rwanda’s defence, as Nigeria looks to secure another win in the qualifiers.
Predicted XI:
Nwabali; Ekong, Ajayi, Bassey; Aina, Dele-Bashiru, Onyeka, Onyemaechi; Chukwueze, Osimhen, Lookman.
With this lineup, the Super Eagles will aim for another dominant display as they edge closer to securing their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
still Calvin shud be on the bench or start from the bench .