The home-based Eagles in training ahead of the CHAN in August
William Troost-Ekong has regained his starting place at the heart of the Super Eagles of Nigeria’s defence for the all-important 2026 World Cup Group A qualifier against South Africa in Bloemfontein.
The 32-year-old captain was benched in Nigeria’s 1-0 win against Rwanda in Uyo over the weekend.
However, Eric Chelle, Eagles’ head coach, has returned the Al-Kholood centre back as one of three changes to the team that edged Rwanda, a win that reignited Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes.
Bruno Onyemaechi drops to the bench as Calvin Bassey is moved to full-back, with Benjamin Fredrick retaining his place in the middle. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru also comes in for Frank Onyeka.
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The big change upfront sees Chelle pick Cyril Dessers to replace injured Victor Osimhen. The Panathinaikos striker is preferred to Tolu Arokodare, who scored Nigeria’s winning goal in Uyo.
The Super Eagles must defeat the Bafana Bafana in South Africa to improve their chance of qualification. They are currently third in Group A with ten points, six behind South Africa.
Nigeria was held to a 1-1 draw by South Africa in the reverse fixture last year. The perennial rivals lock horns at the Toyota stadium from 5pm.
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Super Eagles Starting XI: Stanley Nwabali, William Troost-Ekong (C), Benjamin Fredrick, Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey; Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi; Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Cyril Dessers.
