Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has officially named his starting lineup for tonight’s all-important 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff clash against Gabon, set to take place at the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
The fixture is a crucial one for Nigeria as the team seeks to regain momentum on its path toward qualifying for the next FIFA World Cup. Fans across the world are anticipating an exciting encounter between two African football powerhouses determined to make a statement.
As expected, Stanley Nwabali, Nigeria’s dependable first-choice goalkeeper, will start between the posts. The Chippa United shot-stopper has continued to earn the trust of fans and coaching staff alike after his outstanding performances at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where Nigeria reached the final.
The defensive setup features Bright Osayi-Samuel and Zaidu Sanusi as full-backs. Osayi-Samuel, who plays for Fenerbahçe in Turkey, is known for his pace, overlapping runs, and defensive composure. On the opposite flank, Sanusi of FC Porto brings balance and attacking width, providing both defensive strength and offensive contribution.
In the heart of defence, Calvin Bassey of Fulham partners Benjamin Fredrick, one of Nigeria’s rising stars. The young defender has impressed with his calmness under pressure and aerial dominance, making him a valuable addition to the backline.
The midfield will be anchored by Wilfred Ndidi, who will captain the Super Eagles for the match. The Leicester City midfielder’s leadership, tackling precision, and ability to control the game’s tempo are vital to Nigeria’s setup. He will be joined by Alex Iwobi, who will be making his 90th international appearance for the national team — a remarkable achievement for the Fulham playmaker.
Iwobi’s creativity, vision, and ability to link play between midfield and attack are expected to be instrumental in breaking down Gabon’s defensive structure.
In attack, Éric Chelle has gone for an aggressive approach, deploying a trio of Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Jerome Akor behind Nigeria’s star striker, Victor Osimhen.
Ademola Lookman, currently shining for Atalanta in Italy’s Serie A, will operate from the left flank, bringing pace, skill, and clinical finishing. Samuel Chukwueze, the AC Milan winger, will take charge on the right, known for his dazzling footwork and ability to take on defenders. Jerome Akor, an exciting forward who continues to make waves in European football, will play just behind Osimhen, providing additional firepower and creativity.
At the front of the attack is Victor Osimhen, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, who leads the line for the Super Eagles. The Napoli forward remains Nigeria’s most potent goal-scoring threat, and all eyes will be on him to deliver another memorable performance.
Below is Nigeria’s full starting XI for the encounter:
Super Eagles Line-Up vs Gabon:
- Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali
- Defenders: Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredrick, Calvin Bassey, Zaidu Sanusi
- Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (Captain), Alex Iwobi
- Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Jerome Akor, Victor Osimhen
The bench includes experienced and emerging stars such as Kelechi Iheanacho, Raphael Onyedika, Terem Moffi, and Kenneth Omeruo, giving Coach Chelle a wide range of tactical options.
Ahead of the match, Éric Chelle expressed optimism about his team’s readiness and determination. “Every player understands the significance of this game. The focus is on securing maximum points and making our fans proud,” Chelle told reporters during a pre-match press briefing in Rabat.
Fans back home in Nigeria and across the diaspora are buzzing with excitement, hoping the Super Eagles can display their trademark attacking flair and defensive solidity to secure victory.
The Gabonese side, known as The Panthers, are expected to put up a strong fight. With several Europe-based players in their squad, Gabon will look to frustrate Nigeria and capitalize on counterattacking opportunities.
Football pundits believe Nigeria’s midfield dominance and attacking depth could be decisive in determining the outcome. The combination of Ndidi’s defensive strength, Iwobi’s creativity, and Osimhen’s killer instinct could prove too overwhelming for Gabon’s backline.
As the Super Eagles take to the pitch in Rabat tonight, millions of Nigerians will be watching closely — not just for the result, but for the team’s chemistry and tactical cohesion under Éric Chelle’s leadership.
Victory tonight will not only boost Nigeria’s qualification hopes but also restore confidence among fans eager to see their beloved Super Eagles return to the world’s biggest football stage.
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— By Africa Live News Sports Desk
