Adams or Arokodare? The Super Eagles striker Chelle could drop for in-form Dessers

Nigeria’s Super Eagles return to action next month with two games against Tanzania in the race for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Cyriel Dessers is giving head coach Eric Chelle something to think about ahead of those November fixtures, with his goalscoring form at Panathinaikos reigniting his case for a place in the Super Eagles squad.

The striker has scored nine goals in 14 appearances in all competitions this season and has found the net in each of his last four matches. His form comes at a crucial time, with Nigeria preparing for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania.

Dessers has scored three goals in the Greek Super League, including the winner in Panathinaikos’ 1-0 away victory over Volos on October 25.

He has been even more prolific in Europe, scoring six goals in the UEFA Conference League. Three came during qualifying, while he has added another three in the league phase, including a brace against FC Kairat on October 22.

Those goals took his career tally in the competition to 13, drawing him level with Lech Poznań’s Mikael Ishak as the joint-top scorer in the Conference League’s group-stage and league-phase era.

With Dessers scoring regularly, Chelle has a decision to make about his options up front.

Super Eagles stars Osimhen, Adams or Arokodare: Who is at risk?

Victor Osimhen is unlikely to lose his place simply because another Nigerian striker is in good form. The Galatasaray forward remains a key figure in the Super Eagles’ attack. In that sense, Dessers’ strongest route into the squad may be through one of the other centre-forwards.

Tolu Arokodare, who has also been on fire in European competitions for Ajax, could be under pressure. The Genk striker offers height and aerial strength, qualities that could help Nigeria against opponents who defend deep. However, Dessers’ recent scoring record gives Chelle a compelling alternative.

Akor Adams, who is also impressing in Serie A, is another option. The Venezia forward provides a physical presence in the penalty area, while 19-year-old George Ilenikhena offers a younger option for the attack.

Dessers, meanwhile, has shown that he can score consistently in both domestic and European competition. His movement and finishing could make him a useful partner for Osimhen or an alternative when the Galatasaray striker is unavailable.

If Chelle wants to bring Dessers into the squad without dropping Osimhen, Arokodare and Adams could find themselves competing for the remaining places.

Arokodare’s aerial ability may still work in his favour, particularly if Chelle wants a different option late in games. Adams could also keep his place, depending on the coach’s plans.

The goal, though, is to win the two games against Tanzania to keep up the chase on group leaders Guinea-Bissau. And to achieve that, there will be no room for experiment and Chelle will only extend invitations to strikers who have previously delivered under pressure for Nigeria.

Akor Adams has the edge in that regard, with the former Sevilla man boasting 7 goals in 18 appearances for the Super Eagles. Arokodare and Dessers are, however, in the same boat with six international goals between them.

Chelle’s decision could, therefore, come down to which of Arokodare or Dessers best suit his plans for Tanzania.