Uyo, Nigeria – The Super Eagles are set to roll out a more experienced team to meet Rwanda on Saturday night at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in their last chance to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Coach Éric Sékou Chelle is using more balance with a mix of experienced players and youth in the hope of bringing to life their hopes of qualification.
Stanley Nwabali is expected to take the gloves as William Troost-Ekong partners Benjamin Fredrick in the centre of defence. Calvin Bassey and Ola Aina are the fullbacks but this may be the first time many of the players are together in the backline.
Wilfred Ndidi is a starter in midfield with support from Alex Iwobi and Christantus Uche. The players are hoping to establish some stability on the ball while providing attacking options as well.
Victor Osimhen is central and Samuel Chukwueze is expected to be to his left and Moses Simon to Osimhen’s right. Ademola Lookman and Bruno Onyemaechi are expected to be on the bench meaning Chelle at least has options to make tactical substitutions as the match progresses.
Coming into the last leg of the round, Nigeria is under pressure having only one win in six matches thus far. They sit on four points in Group C while Rwanda has been on a hot streak playing on the road. Nigeria hopes that they can at least get a win, now that they are in Uyo.
The Super Eagles is in a position now where they could regard this match like a turning point for Nigeria’s world-cup campaign. It looks as if Chelle is taking some defensive adjustments to the starting XI against Rwanda with the intent of restoring Nigeria’s confidence and momentum for the 2026 World Cup.