Super Eagles: 4 players who could make their debut in November AFCON qualifiers

The Super Eagles will face Tanzania in a crucial double-header in November as they look to get their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign back on track.

Nigeria currently have three points from their opening two Group L matches. Eric Chelle’s men began their campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar, with debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor getting on the scoresheet.

However, the Super Eagles suffered a major setback in their next game, falling to a disappointing 3-0 defeat against Guinea-Bissau.

The result left Nigeria playing catch-up in the group, with Guinea-Bissau sitting three points ahead. With Tanzania already guaranteed a place at the AFCON as one of the tournament’s co-hosts, the Super Eagles have little room for further mistakes in the race for the available qualifying spot.

The November games could therefore force Chelle to look beyond his established options, with several players making a strong case for a first senior invitation after impressive performances for their clubs and in previous camps.

Afrik-Foot looks at four players who could make their Super Eagles debut in the November AFCON qualifiers.

Four players who could make competitive Super Eagles debut in November 

1. Victory Akpe

Victory Akpe could be handed another opportunity after previously earning a call-up to the Super Eagles squad.

The young defender was included in the plans for the friendly against Russia but was forced to pull out before getting the chance to make his senior debut.

With the Super Eagles looking to strengthen their options in defence following the heavy defeat to Guinea-Bissau, Akpe could come back into contention if Chelle decides to reward his club form.

A fresh call-up would give the defender another chance to prove himself and potentially earn his first minutes in Nigeria colours.

2. Emmanuel Ayaosi 

Ayaosi has also put himself in the conversation after enjoying an impressive run of form this season.

The youngster’s performances could make him an interesting option for Chelle, especially as the Super Eagles coach looks to add more competition to his squad.

Nigeria have already seen the impact that new faces can make during the qualifying campaign, with Ilenikhena and Usor scoring on their debuts against Madagascar.

Ayaosi will hope his form at club level is enough to convince Chelle that he deserves a chance to take the next step and make his senior international bow.

3. Peter Edokpolor

Peter Edokpolor may have already given Chelle a reminder of what he can offer after his eye-catching performance against Russia.

The youngster needed only a few minutes to make an impact, scoring shortly after coming off the bench in the friendly.

His ability to make an immediate impact could work in his favour, especially with Nigeria needing players who can offer something different in two must-win games against Tanzania. 

4. David Moses

David Moses is another player who could benefit from his fine form this season.

The youngster has continued to make progress at club level and could be rewarded with a first invitation to the senior national team if he maintains his current level.

With competition for places expected to increase ahead of the Tanzania games, Chelle may see the November window as an opportunity to introduce another fresh option into his squad.

A first call-up would be a major step for Moses, but his recent performances suggest he could be ready to compete for a place among the Super Eagles.

A big opportunity for new faces

The Super Eagles head into the Tanzania double-header knowing that positive results are very important to their hopes of reaching the 2027 AFCON.

Chelle will be hoping to get the right balance between experience and fresh legs, with several new players pushing to break into the squad.

The Super Eagles host Tanzania in the first leg on November 13 and will travel for the second leg four days later, hoping to gain maximum points from the two games.