Victor Osimhen embraces Samuel Chukwueze in Nigeria 4-0 win over Benin Republic | Photo Credit: NFF
Moses Simon has been left out of the Super Eagles’ starting line-up for the game against Gabon in the African playoffs for the 2026 World Cup.
The 30-year-old is replaced on the team by Samuel Chukwueze, who completes the front-four alongside Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Adams Akor.
Simon was a constant presence in the Eagles’ starting line-up throughout the group stages of the qualifiers.
Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles head coach, also benched William Troost-Ekong in defence. The Franco-Malian coach opts for the youthful backline pairing of Calvin Bassey and Benjamin Frederick. The duo of Zaidu Sanusi and Bright Osayi-Samuel will start as the full-backs.
Advertisement
Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi continue as the heart of the team in midfield, and Stanley Nwabali keeps his place in between the goalposts.
The Super Eagles play Gabon in one of the semi-finals of the playoffs at 5 pm on Thursday.
The winner of the match will face either Congo DR or Cameroon in the final to clinch the sole slot to represent Africa at the intercontinental playoff.
Advertisement
Controversies have marred Nigeria’s preparation for the competition.
On Tuesday, the Eagles boycotted their training session in protest of unpaid allowances. The players refused to train until 24 hours later, after their demands were met by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Super Eagles Starting XI: Stanley Nwabali, Benjamin Fredrick, Calvin Bassey, Bright Osay-Samuel, Zaidu Sanusi; Wilfred Ndidi (C), Alex Iwobi; Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams, Victor Osimhen.
Advertisement
