In October, Nigeria will lock horns with Libya twice in four days for the third and fourth rounds of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Following a bright start to their campaign with victories over Benin and Rwanda, the Super Eagles will be eager to maintain their momentum when they face Libya’s Mediterranean Knights.
Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen is expected to name his 24-man squad soon, and several players have shown excellent form for their clubs, making strong cases for inclusion.
Soccernet.ng‘s Imhons Erons predicts the men coach Eguavoen can count on to get the job done for Nigeria.
Goalkeepers: Nwabali, Obasogie, Okoye
Stanley Nwabali of Chippa United looks set to retain his position as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Having established himself as one of the best in Africa, his recent performances suggest Eguavoen will continue to rely on him.
Maduka Okoye, now featuring regularly for Udinese in Serie A, offers strong backup, while Amas Obasogie could also get the nod, especially with Francis Uzoho struggling for game time in Cyprus.
Defenders: Full-backs and centre-backs
Ola Aina remains Nigeria’s go-to right-back, but Tanimu Benjamin could feature again, especially if Bright Osayi-Samuel isn’t fully fit.
On the left, with Porto’s Zaidu Sanusi still sidelined, Eguavoen could turn to Jamilu Collins or Bruno Onyemaechi.
At centre-back, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, and Olisa Ndah are likely to retain their spots after a solid defensive display in September.
Additionally, Tosin Adarabioyo, the Chelsea man who has been pursued by Eguavoen, seems poised for his Super Eagles debut.
Midfield: Iwobi, Ndidi, Onyeka lead the pack
In midfield, Frank Onyeka’s impressive start to life in Germany and Wilfred Ndidi’s consistent form for Leicester make them strong contenders.
Raphael Onyedika and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru have also impressed in Belgium and Italy,respectively while Fulham’s Alex Iwobi remains Nigeria’s creative force, providing vision and energy.
Wingers: Chukwueze, Lookman, Simon shine
Ademola Lookman, in sensational form for Atalanta, is a certainty for selection.
Samuel Chukwueze may be struggling at AC Milan, but his place in the Super Eagles squad is still secure.
Moses Simon has returned to fitness, and Chidera Ejuke’s form for Sevilla, including a match-winning goal this week, may also see him included.
Strikers: Osimhen leads the attack
Victor Osimhen, the focal point of Nigeria’s attack, continues to shine at Galatasaray, with three assists in his last three games.
Victor Boniface has yet to find his feet at the international level but will surely be called up due to his outstanding form in the Bundesliga.
Cyriel Dessers, enjoying a purple patch for Rangers, could also feature, while Taiwo Awoniyi offers a strong option upfront.
Predicted 24-man Super Eagles squad for Libya
Goalkeepers
Stanley Nwabali
Amas Obasogie
Maduka Okoye
Defenders
Tanimu Benjamin
Ola Aina
Bruno Onyemaechi
William Troost-Ekong
Calvin Bassey
Semi Ajayi
Olisa Ndah
Tosin Adarabioyo
Midfielders
Alex Iwobi
Wilfred Ndidi
Frank Onyeka
Raphael Onyedika
Alhassan Yusuf
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru
Wingers
Samuel Chukwueze
Ademola Lookman
Moses Simon
Chidera Ejuke
Strikers
Cyriel Dessers
Victor Osimhen
Victor Boniface