Super Eagles: 2 right-backs Chelle should consider after Osayi-Samuel’s poor display

Super Eagles right-back Bright Osayi-Samuel’s performance in Nigeria’s 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau has raised fresh questions about the right-back position, with Eric Chelle having two alternatives worth considering, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 28-year-old started at right-back as Nigeria suffered their first defeat of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign in Bissau.

The Birmingham City defender struggled to impose himself as Guinea-Bissau repeatedly found space down Nigeria’s right, while the Super Eagles ultimately conceded three goals without reply.

The defeat does not make Osayi-Samuel a poor player, but it underlines the importance of having competition for places ahead of November’s AFCON qualifiers.

2 Super Eagles right-backs Chelle should consider calling

1. Abdullahi Bewene

Bewene has already shown Chelle that he can handle the right-back position at international level.

The Baník Ostrava defender made his Super Eagles debut against Poland in June, starting at right-back and completing the entire 90 minutes in Nigeria’s 2-2 draw in Warsaw. The 21-year-old was also given 31 minutes against Portugal.

Although primarily used as a right wing-back by Baník Ostrava, he has also operated at right-back, right midfield and defensive midfield.

Bewene has played 730 minutes in the Czech top flight this season, and his flexibility could appeal to Chelle, particularly if the coach wants his full-backs to move into midfield during possession.

2. Ryan Alebiosu

Alebiosu is another option who deserves consideration when fit. The Blackburn Rovers right-back established himself as a regular under Tony Mowbray, starting all eight of Blackburn’s Championship games this season.

His previous Championship campaign was also productive, with 39 appearances, one goal and five assists for Blackburn.

If fully fit and back to his best, though, Alebiosu offers Chelle another established option who is playing regularly in English football.

The 24-year-old also already has senior international experience, having made his Nigeria debut against Uganda during the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco.

Chelle needs competition at right-back

Osayi-Samuel’s performance in Bissau should not be viewed in isolation, considering the entire Nigerian defence struggled against Guinea-Bissau, but the 3-0 defeat has provided Chelle with a reason to examine his alternatives.

Bewene offers youth, versatility and previous experience of playing right-back for Nigeria, while Alebiosu is a beast when bombing up and down the flank.

For Nigeria, the issue is not necessarily replacing Osayi-Samuel. It is ensuring that the right-back position has enough competition to prevent any player from becoming an automatic selection.