Predicted Nigeria XI vs Jordan: Uzoho, Onyedika, Onuachu in; Okoye out in new-look Super Eagles

Nigeria’s Super Eagles tackle Jordan on Tuesday afternoon in the second and final friendly match of this international window, Afrik-Foot reports.

The match offers head coach Eric Chelle the chance to reshape his team in the face of key absences and experiment with a slightly different tactical balance. Injuries and withdrawals have forced changes across the pitch, but they also open the door for fresh combinations that could define the next phase of this squad.

After the 2-1 win over Iran, the expectation might be for continuity. Instead, this predicted XI leans into controlled rotation. The aim is to maintain structure while testing players who can offer tactical flexibility, particularly in midfield and attack. Chelle’s preferred 4-4-2 diamond allows Nigeria to stay compact centrally while still providing width through the full-backs and attacking midfield movement.

With that in mind, here is how the Super Eagles could line up.

Super Eagles: Goalkeeper

Francis Uzoho gets the nod ahead of Maduka Okoye, and the reasoning is tactical rather than form-based. While Okoye started the last match, Uzoho could be given the opportunity to show his quality.

Three goalkeepers invited for two friendlies, it is only right for Chelle to think of rotation as there is not much difference in quality between them. In Okoye’s absence, Uzoho was Nigeria’s second-choice goalie behind Stanley Nwabali at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. A game against Jordan should not faze the Cyprus-based shot-stopper.

Defence

The back four practically picks itself given the absences. Bright Osayi-Samuel starts at right-back, providing pace and direct running, while Zaidu Sanusi operates on the left, offering natural width and recovery speed.

In central defence, Igoh Ogbu partners Emmanuel Fernandez. Ogbu’s physical presence and aerial strength make him the natural leader of the line, especially after shaking off his recent knock. Fernandez, fresh from his debut, brings composure on the ball and the willingness to step into midfield, an important trait in a diamond system where progression through the centre is key.

Midfield

This is where the boldest call comes. Wilfred Ndidi is rested after his exertions against Iran, and Raphael Onyedika steps in at the base of the diamond. Onyedika offers mobility and sharper vertical passing, which suits a system designed to transition quickly from defence to attack.

Ahead of him, Alex Iwobi provides the creative link, drifting between lines and dictating tempo. On the right side of the diamond, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru is preferred over Samuel Chukwueze for his energy, ball-carrying and ability to support both phases of play. On the left, Moses Simon brings directness and width, even within a narrow midfield shape, often drifting wide to stretch the pitch.

Attack

Up front, the pairing reflects a blend of movement and physical presence. Ademola Lookman operates just off Paul Onuachu, forming a complementary strike duo.

Lookman’s intelligence in finding pockets of space and linking play makes him the natural second striker, while Onuachu provides a focal point with his aerial dominance and hold-up play.

This means Akor Adams drops to the bench despite his recent goal. The decision is tactical, as Chelle is still unclear about how to get the best of Onuachu. This is the best chance for the Trabzonspor striker to offer something different against a Jordan side likely to defend deep. Atletico Madrid forward Lookman will look to link the midfield to attack, ensuring the frontline does not become static in Adams’ absence.

Predicted XI (4-4-2 Diamond): Uzoho; Osayi-Samuel, Ogbu, Fernandez, Sanusi; Onyedika; Dele-Bashiru, Iwobi, Simon; Lookman, Onuachu.