The Super Eagles of Nigeria will take on Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio on Saturday as they look to get back on track in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.
The game carries a high level of significance, as Nigeria are fourth in Group C of the qualifiers, with seven points from six games. And they need to start winning games if they want to make the World Cup next year.
How things stand in Group C after the Super Eagles of Nigeria’s victory against Rwanda. pic.twitter.com/vjviEgYUdU
— Leagues Reporter (@LeaguesReporter) March 21, 2025
This international break coincides with the the close of the transfer market, which Nigerian players have been heavily involved in. Some were able to sort out their futures really early, while others still have theirs in the balance.
So, it is expected that it will, along with the form of the players, affect coach Eric Chelle’s team selection for the next two games.
Soccernet.ng predicts the Super Eagles’ possible starting lineup against Rwanda on Saturday.
Goalkeeper
Stanley Nwabali is expected to retain his starting shirt. There were fears that he sustained an injury days before the Super Eagles squad list was revealed.
But he was passed fit and even played for his club Chippa United last weekend.
Defenders
Eric Chelle usually plays four at the back. And while he will continue with that, it might be an interesting mix this time.
Nottingham Forest star Ola Aina has continued to shine at his club, so he will retain his starting shirt. Captain William Troost-Ekong should also keep his place.
However, there is a switch at center-back, with Benjamin Fredrick partnering Troost-Ekong. Then, Calvin Bassey will move to left back to give some solidity to that position.
Fredrick was impressive at the Unity Cup, and Chelle likes him apparently. Meanwhile, Bassey has been great playing from the left side of the defence.
Midfielders
Eric Chelle is expected to use similar midfielders against Rwanda. Wilfred Ndidi will likely maintain his place in the base of the midfield.
Then, he will have support from Alex Iwobi and Christantus Uche, whose impressive performances recent earned him a move to Crystal Palace.
Uche was also good when he made his debut at the Unity Cup in June. So he will likely get a starting shirt.
Forwards
Although Eric Chelle plays a 4-4-2, the fourth player in the midfield is usually an attacker and is expected to be the creative spark.
Last time out in the Unity Cup, Chukwueze was the one who played that role, and he looked very good. As such, he will likely start as the fourth man in the middle of the park.
Then, Moses Simon will start behind the striker Victor Osimhen, who is obviously the best player on the team.
There no place for Ademola Lookman, as he has not played any game since May 25, so he might not be match-fit.
Aside from that, the last few months have been tough for him, as he has been trying to force a move away from Atalanta, so he might not have the right temperament. Nonetheless, if he performs well in training, Chelle will likely let him start.
Super Eagles predicted lineup: Nwabali; Ola Aina, Benjamin Fredrick, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey; Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Christantus Uche, Samuel Chukwueze; Moses Simon, Victor Osimhen.