Official Nigeria XI vs Rwanda: Osimhen and Lookman start, Bruno dropped for Super Eagles

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has named an attacking lineup for Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, Footynaija.com reports.

The Group C showdown at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali sees fifth-placed Nigeria take on second-placed Rwanda in a must-win match for both sides’ qualification hopes.

Chelle, eager to start his tenure with a victory, has opted for a 4-4-2 formation for the three-time African champions.

Up front, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman — both recent winners of CAF’s Africa Footballer of the Year award — lead the attack. Moses Simon starts on his favoured left flank, where he is most dangerous, while AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze occupies the right wing.

In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi are tasked with shielding the defence and dictating play.

Chelle’s biggest selection decision comes at full-back, where Ola Aina gets the nod at left-back ahead of Bruno Onyemaechi, while Fenerbahçe’s Bright Osayi-Samuel starts on the right.

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At centre-back, captain William Troost-Ekong partners Calvin Bassey, leaving Igoh Ogbu waiting for his full debut.

In goal, Chippa United’s Stanley Nwabali retains the No.1 spot, with Amas Obasogie and Kayode Bankole on the bench.

The match kicks off at 5 pm Nigerian time.

Nigeria Super Eagles Starting XI vs Rwanda:

Nwabali; Aina, Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Osayi-Samuel; Ndidi, Iwobi, Chukwueze, Simon; Lookman, Osimhen.