Victor Osimhen (right) and Akor Adams
Eric Chele, the Super Eagles head coach, has named a familiar starting line-up for the team’s opener at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) against Tanzania.
The Franco-Malian coach opts to start with a front two of Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams, with Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman on the wings.
The midfield duo will be captain Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi. The defence is marshalled by the pairing of Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey, while Zaidu Sanusi and Bright Osayi-Samuel play on both flanks.
Despite the recent reports of injuries, Stanley Nwabali will start as the team’s goalkeeper.
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The Super Eagles take on Tanzania at 6:30 Nigerian time on Tuesday. The team will then take on Tunisia on December 27 before facing Uganda in the final group match three days later.
Nigeria are aiming to surpass the second-placed finish at the last AFCON held in Cote d’Ivoire. The players have also repeatedly promised to use the AFCON as a positive response to their failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Super Eagles Starting XI: Stanley Nwabali, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi; Wilfred Ndidi (C), Alex Iwobi; Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams, Victor Osimhen.
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