Super Eagles XI vs Tanzania: Iwobi, Nwabali, Bassey in Chelle’s predicted lineup

Nigeria’s Super Eagles begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Tanzania on Friday.

Head coach Éric Chelle has several selection decisions to make ahead of the match at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

The Super Eagles will be without Victor Osimhen, who is recovering from knee surgery, while Maduka Okoye has also been left out of the squad.

Chelle is expected to use his preferred 4-4-2 diamond formation, with Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Ademola Lookman and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in midfield. Tolu Arokodare and Akor Adams are likely to lead the attack.

Super Eagles possible XI vs Tanzania

The goalkeeping

Stanley Nwabali should start in goal against Tanzania despite competition from Arthur Okonkwo and Francis Uzoho.

Nwabali failed to secure his dream move to Europe from Chippa United, but his experience with the Super Eagles gives him an advantage over his rivals.

The goalkeeper was one of Nigeria’s best performers at the 2023 and 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, helping the team reach the semifinals on both occasions.

Okonkwo has enjoyed regular football at club level and could push for a starting place. However, Friday’s match would be a big occasion to hand him his first competitive start for Nigeria.

Uzoho is another option, but he has struggled to convince in previous appearances for the Super Eagles.

Still, Chelle should stick with the goalkeeper who has served Nigeria well in previous tournaments rather than make a change.

Defence

Ola Aina should start at right-back, with Bruno Onyemaechi expected to play on the left.

Bright Osayi-Samuel and Abdullahi Bewene are also available on the right, but Aina’s ability to move into midfield and help Nigeria build attacks gives him the edge.

In central defence, Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi are expected to start together. Bassey brings strength and composure on the ball, while Ajayi offers aerial ability and experience.

Ajayi’s fitness could be a concern after he was forced off during Hull City’s recent match. Benjamin Fredrick and Chibuike Nwaiwu are available if he is unable to start.

Midfield

Wilfred Ndidi should captain the midfield from the base of Chelle’s diamond, protecting the defence and breaking up Tanzania’s attacks.

Iwobi and Dele-Bashiru are expected to play on either side of him. Iwobi’s passing and ability to control the game will be important against Tanzania’s likely defensive approach, while Dele-Bashiru’s energy and forward runs could cause problems for their midfield.

Lookman, who has been linked with a move to AS Roma and Fenerbahçe, should play behind the two strikers. His ability to take on defenders, create chances and find space between the lines makes him a key player in Nigeria’s attack.

Forward

With Osimhen unavailable, Arokodare and Adams are likely to lead the attack.

Arokodare has scored 12 goals and provided four assists in 16 appearances for Ajax. His height and strength should make life difficult for Tanzania’s defenders, particularly when Nigeria deliver crosses into the box.

Adams offers pace, movement and the willingness to run into the channels. His partnership with Arokodare could give Nigeria a good balance up front.

Taiwo Awoniyi is also in contention, but he may have to settle for a place on the bench.

Nigeria’s predicted XI vs Tanzania (4-4-2 diamond)

Nwabali; Aina, Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Dele-Bashiru, Iwobi, Lookman; Arokodare, Adams.