Who's in, who's out: Predicting Super Eagles matchday squad to face Rwanda in 2026 WCQ

As the Super Eagles prepare for their first 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda on March 21 in Kigali, head coach Eric Chelle faces the exciting task of assembling his strongest line-up for the important match. 

With a blend of seasoned internationals and emerging talents, Chelle is expected to name a formidable squad capable of securing a vital three points as Nigeria begins its journey toward qualification for the next World Cup.

Allnigeriasoccer.com predicts the matchday squad from the 39 players included in the provisional squad.

Goalkeepers

In goal, Chelle has a solid pool of options. Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa), Amas Obasogie (Singida Black Stars, Tanzania), and Adeleye Adebayo (Enosis Neon Paralimni, Cyprus) are all expected to fight for the starting spot. 

With Maduka Okoye unavailable, Nwabali, who has been a regular for his South African side, could be the first choice to start between the posts, while Obasogie and Adebayo provide capable backup.

Defenders

Chelle is likely to rely on a strong defensive line to protect Nigeria's goal. William Troost-Ekong (Al Khalood, Saudi Arabia), a veteran of several international campaigns, is set to lead the defense.

Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England) is expected to partner with Ekong in the center of defense, providing a solid presence alongside the experienced defender.

In the full-back positions, Bruno Onyemaechi, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Ola Aina are likely to be chosen to offer width and defensive stability. 

Aina's experience in top-flight football makes him a reliable option on the right. 

Gabriel Osho  provides further depth, and with his strong performances in France, he could earn a spot in the rotation.

Midfielders

The midfield will likely see a combination of ball winners, playmakers, and defensive midfielders. 

Wilfred Ndidi , one of Nigeria's most reliable defensive midfielders, will be expected to hold the midfield and break up opposition attacks. 

Alongside him, Raphael Onyedika  offers a strong, physical presence, while Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi  provides further defensive stability and work rate.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru , who has impressed with his technical ability and vision, is expected to feature as a box-to-box midfielder, providing creativity and linking defense with attack. 

Frank Onyeka offers additional depth, bringing his energy and versatility, while Alex Iwobi is poised to pull the strings in the middle of the park with his creativity and flair.

Strikers

In attack, Chelle has an array of attacking options, with a mix of pace, power, and creativity. Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen , and Ademola Lookman  are the likely starting trio, offering a potent threat in the final third.

Chukwueze’s pace and dribbling skills make him a nightmare for defenders, while Osimhen’s clinical finishing and physicality will be crucial for Nigeria’s attacking play. Lookman, known for his flair and creativity, will add flair and width to the attack.

Kelechi Iheanacho , Victor Boniface , and Moses Simon  offer more attacking options from the bench. 

Iheanacho’s intelligence and ability to score goals could prove invaluable, while Boniface’s excellent form at Bayer Leverkusen gives him a real chance to start. Simon, with his speed and versatility, can cause havoc on the wings.

Additionally, Paul Onuachu and Nathan Tella are all capable of making an impact. 

Onuachu’s aerial prowess and ability to hold up the ball will be vital in different scenarios, while Tella offers a fresh attacking option off the bench.

As the Super Eagles gear up for the important clash against Rwanda, all eyes will be on Chelle’s starting XI, which is likely to feature a blend of experience, flair, and physicality. 

The outcome of this fixture could be crucial in Nigeria's bid for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and Chelle will be hoping his squad can rise to the occasion and make a strong statement in the qualifiers.

Predicted Super Eagles matchday 23 to face Rwanda

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United), Amas Obasogie (Singida Black Stars, Tanzania), Adeleye Adebayo (Enosis Neon Paralimni, Cyprus)

Defenders: William Ekong (Al Khalood, Saudi Arabia), Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce, Turkey), Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos, Greece), Gabriel Osho (AJ Auxerre, France), Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England), Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest, England)

Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England), Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium), Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England, USA), Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (SS Lazio, Italy), Frank Onyeka (Augsburg, Germany), Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England)

Strikers: Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy), Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey), Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy), Kelechi Iheanacho (Middlesbrough, England), Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany), Simon Moses (Nantes, France), Paul Onuachu (Southampton, England), Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)

Wale Adejumo

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