Semi Ajayi has passed a late fitness test to make the Super Eagles confirmed XI against Benin at the Stade Felix-Houphouet-Boigny.
The West Browmwich Albion defender was a major doubt for Monday’s game after picking up a knock in the match against South Africa last Friday.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who scored to draw Nigeria level, marking his debut goal for the three-time African champions, was also stretchered off the field due to injury and lost his place in the starting XI.
Finidi George made three changes to the team that drew against South Africa, with Kelechi Iheanacho, Fisayo Dele- Bashiru and Paul Onuachu making way for Samuel Chukwueze, Raphael Onyedika and Terem Moffi.
The Super Eagles have yet to record a win after three rounds of matches, having drawn all games, and they find themselves uncomfortably placed fifth in the group with three points.
Benin, on the other hand, have garnered four points and are placed third in the standings. Having missed out on qualification to the last World Cup finals, Nigeria must get their act together and avoid being absent in consecutive editions for the first time since their maiden appearance in 1994.
Moffi leads Super Eagles’ attack
Finidi stuck with his 4-3-3 formation, as was the case against Bafana. Stanley Nwabali retained his position as the number one goalkeeper.
Benjamin Tanimu secured the right-back position, with Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi playing as centre-backs and Bright Osayi-Samuel at left-back.
In midfield, Finidi deployed Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi and Raphael Onyedika.
In attack, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze are expected to operate from the flanks with Terem Moffi spearheading the attack.
Nigeria confirmed lineup vs Benin
Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali.
Defenders: Benjamin Tanimu, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Midfielders: Raphael Onyedika, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi.
Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi.
