Super Eagles: Why Eric Chelle must unleash Moses Usor against Tanzania in Zanzibar

Super Eagles winger Moses Usor has given Éric Chelle a selection headache after his impressive display in Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Tanzania in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Uyo on Friday.

The LASK star was introduced at half-time alongside Tolu Arokodare and helped Nigeria turn a difficult game around after a disappointing first-half performance.

With Ademola Lookman ruled out of Tuesday’s return fixture in Zanzibar through a knee ligament injury, Usor is pushing for his first Super Eagles start.

Usor makes his Super Eagles case against Tanzania

Nigeria struggled to break down Tanzania in the first half, with the visitors keeping their shape and limiting the hosts’ chances.

Chelle responded by bringing on Usor for goalscorer Alhassan Yusuf, while Arokodare replaced Tochukwu Nnadi, who was making his home debut.

Usor’s introduction gave Nigeria more width and pace in attack. He repeatedly took on Tanzania’s defenders, stretched their backline and created space for his teammates.

The winger was involved in the build-up to Arokodare’s 52nd-minute backheel goal before delivering the cross that allowed the striker to score his second in the 60th minute.

It was another strong contribution from Usor, who also scored a late winner against Madagascar on his Super Eagles debut in September.

Lookman’s absence opens the door

Lookman’s injury makes Usor’s chances of starting in Zanzibar even stronger. The Atlético Madrid man has been ruled out after suffering a sprain knee during the first half of the clash against the Taifa Stars.

With the former Atalanta forward unavailable and Samuel Chukwueze also missing, Nigeria have fewer natural wingers who can trouble defenders with their pace and dribbling.

Usor has shown that he can provide that threat. His ability to beat full-backs, switch flanks and deliver crosses would also benefit Arokodare, who scored twice against Tanzania.

The winger’s club form is another plus. He has scored three goals and provided three assists in 11 Bundesliga appearances for LASK this season.

Why Simon could still get the nod

Moses Simon is possibly the first Ademola Lookman alternative that Eric Chelle would consider. The Paris FC winger brings more international experience, defensive discipline and composure on the ball.

Those qualities could be important away from home, particularly if Tanzania start aggressively and put Nigeria under pressure.

Chelle therefore faces a choice between giving Usor the opportunity to trouble Tanzania from the opening whistle or keeping him on the bench to exploit tired defenders later in the game.

However, Nigeria need a strong performance in Zanzibar, and Usor’s display in Uyo has given Chelle little reason to overlook him. The 24-year-old deserves a chance to start.