Osimhen, Lookman and Aina included in Chelle’s debut Nigeria starting XI vs Rwanda

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has drafted his starting eleven ahead of his debut game in charge of Nigeria as they take on Rwanda this evening, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Malian gaffer included a core part of the Nigerian team in his 23-man squad, with Kayode Bankole, Igor Ogbu, Papa Daniel Mustapha, and Genk’s Tolu Arokodare the only new names in the team.

Chelle opted for the traditional 4-3-3 formation ahead of the Super Eagles’ must win World Cup qualifier fixture against the Amavubi at the Stade Amahoro in Kigali.

Nigeria Starting XI vs. Rwanda, Eric Chelle’s first Super Eagles line-up. pic.twitter.com/qyAZBMPTya

— Leagues Reporter (@LeaguesReporter) March 21, 2025

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Stanley Nwabali retains his position as the Super Eagles number one under Eric Chelle. The Chippa United goalkeeper has kept seven clean sheets in 19 games for the Chilli Boys this season.

Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey and Fenerbahçe’s Bright Osayi-Samuel form the back four protecting Nwabali’s goal.

The quadruple have played with each other before, giving them the advantage of flexing previously build bonds.

Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi were chosen to anchor the middle of the park.

Ademola Lookman has been tasked with creating chances for the attackers to feed off. He plays in a slightly advanced role ahead of Ndidi and Iwobi.

Moses Simon, Victor Osimhen and AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze are set to lead the line as the Super Eagles aim for all three points against the Amavubi of Rwanda.