Nigeria vs DR Congo: Super Eagles boss Eric Chelle drops Gabon hero Akor Adams from confirmed XI

Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle has made two significant changes to his lineup for tonight’s clash with the Democratic Republic of Congo in Rabat, with Akor Adams and Bright Osayi-Samuel dropping to the bench. 

The Malian coach has opted for the same defensive unit that started against Benin Republic in October, as Semi Ajayi returns after serving a suspension in the semifinal win over Gabon.

Frank Onyeka comes into midfield to partner Wilfred Ndidi, whose availability was only confirmed after CAF clarified that his caution against Gabon did not trigger a suspension. Alex Iwobi retains his link role between midfield and attack, as Chelle keeps faith with a structure that has brought stability during the playoff run.

Can Osimhen inspire Super Eagles once again?

The final session on Saturday suggested a settled group, and the starting XI reflects that mood. With a place in the intercontinental playoff semifinals on the line, Eric Chelle has gone for continuity and experience in key areas of the pitch.

Victor Osimhen leads the line once again, coming into the game with 31 goals in 45 appearances and five goals in his last two outings under Chelle. He is flanked by Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman, a front three that has shown fluidity and sharpness in recent games.

A win tonight for the Super Eagles would send them into the semifinals of the intercontinental playoffs, where they will face one of the unseeded sides advancing from the mini-quarterfinals. Victory there would secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and mark a return after missing the 2022 edition in Qatar.

Nigeria starting XI

Stanley Nwabali; Benjamin Frederick, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Zaidu Sanusi; Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi; Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen.