Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has shuffled his starting line-up ahead of Sunday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff showdown against DR Congo, making two notable changes from the previous outing.
Bright Osayi-Samuel and striker Akor Adams have been relegated to the bench, with Frank Onyeka drafted into the midfield to reinforce stability in the middle of the park.
Victor Osimhen retains his place as the spearhead of the attack, supported on the wings by Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze, as Nigeria seeks a sharper attacking edge.
Nigeria’s confirmed XI:
Goalkeeper: Nwabali
Defenders: Benjamin Frederick, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Zaidu Sanusi
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi
Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen
Chelle’s reshuffle signals a deliberate tactical shift, aimed at tightening control in midfield while preserving the team’s offensive threat.
Sunday’s clash carries high stakes, with the winner progressing to the intercontinental playoff scheduled for March 2026 — the final hurdle on the road to the World Cup.
