Predicted XI: Nigeria vs Iran – Who leads the Super Eagles' attack in Osimhen’s absence?

Nigeria’s Super Eagles return to action on Friday, March 27, with an international friendly against Iran in Antalya, Turkey, Afrik-Foot reports.

The fixture forms part of the March international window and offers new head coach Eric Chelle a valuable opportunity to assess his squad ahead of more competitive assignments later in the year.

The game comes at a time when Nigeria are still refining their identity under Chelle. With a blend of established names and emerging talents in camp, the encounter is less about the result and more about cohesion, tactical clarity, and identifying reliable combinations across the pitch.

However, one major talking point dominates the build-up: the absence of Victor Osimhen. The Galatasaray striker was the focal point of Nigeria’s attack at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, and his absence leaves a significant tactical and psychological gap. The question now is simply who steps up to lead the line?

Iran, one of Asia’s most disciplined and tactically organised sides, will provide a stern test. Their compact defensive shape and structured midfield mean Nigeria must be sharp in possession and clinical in the final third. This is the perfect stage for Chelle to test new attacking solutions without Osimhen.

Goalkeeper

With Stanley Nwabali absent, the goalkeeping position is wide open but one name stands clearly ahead.

Maduka Okoye is expected to start, and rightly so. The Udinese shot-stopper arrives in camp in excellent form, having recently produced a standout seven-save performance against Juventus that earned him a place in the Serie A Team of the Week. With six clean sheets this season, he looks sharp, confident, and ready.

Okoye’s biggest advantage is his suitability to Chelle’s preferred possession-based system. Comfortable with the ball at his feet and proactive off his line, he offers more than just shot-stopping, he becomes the first point of attack.

Francis Uzoho brings experience and authority, while Adebayo Adeleye offers agility and consistency at club level, but neither matches Okoye’s current momentum.

Prediction: Maduka Okoye starts in goal.

Defenders

Nigeria’s defensive setup has been reshaped by the absence of Calvin Bassey, who misses out through injury. That forces Chelle into a more pragmatic selection built on physicality and experience.

At right-back, Bright Osayi-Samuel is the obvious choice. His pace and stamina make him vital against quick transitions, while his ability to recover defensively adds balance to Nigeria’s shape.In central defence, Semi Ajayi is expected to lead the line. A key figure during Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 bronze-medal run, Ajayi brings leadership, aerial strength, and composure.

He is likely to be partnered by Igoh Ogbu, whose aggressive, no-nonsense style has earned praise in the Czech league. With Bassey unavailable, Ogbu’s physical presence becomes crucial in dealing with Iran’s structured forward play.

On the left, Zaidu Sanusi should get the nod. His defensive discipline and Champions League experience with Porto give him the edge over the more attack-minded Bruno Onyemaechi.

Predicted back four: Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Ogbu, Sanusi.

Midfielders

Chelle’s midfield selection is likely to prioritise balance; a mix of defensive steel, energy, and creativity.

As captain, Wilfred Ndidi remains undroppable. Now rediscovering his best form at Beşiktaş, Ndidi provides protection for the backline with his tackling, positioning, and reading of the game.

Alongside him, Frank Onyeka offers relentless energy. His performances for Coventry City have boosted his importance as a box-to-box midfielder who can disrupt play and drive transitions.

Further forward, Alex Iwobi is expected to operate as the creative hub. Closing in on his 100th cap, Iwobi has been Fulham’s chief playmaker, consistently progressing the ball and linking midfield to attack.

Players like Raphael Onyedika and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru offer strong alternatives, but the Ndidi-Onyeka-Iwobi trio provides the most trusted blend.

On the left, Ademola Lookman is undroppable. In sensational form for Atlético Madrid, including a strike against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu last weekend, he is Nigeria’s most dangerous attacker. Expect him to cut inside, create chances, and carry the team’s main goal threat.

Predicted midfield four: Ndidi, Onyeka, Iwobi, Lookman

Attackers

This is where the biggest decision lies.

With Osimhen unavailable, Nigeria must rethink how they attack. Rather than a direct, penalty-box-focused approach, Chelle may favour a more fluid front three.

Through the middle, Paul Onuachu is the obvious choice, as he offers a more direct and physical option. The Trabzonspor forward is in excellent form having found the back of the net in ten consecutive league games in Turkey.

Unlike a traditional target man, Onuachu has improved his link-up play; dropping deep, combining with midfielders, and creating space for wide attackers. He will be keen to show that to Chelle and Nigeria.

As his partner upfront, Chelle will likely prefer Akor Adams. The Sevilla man brings pace and unpredictability. Despite being a centre-forward, Adams often offers width and the ability to stretch Iran’s defensive shape.

Predicted front two: Onuachu, Adams.