As the excitement builds for today’s AFCON qualifier between Rwanda and Nigeria, fans are gearing up for a thrilling encounter at Amahoro Stadium.
With a rich history in African football, both teams will be looking to assert their dominance in this Group D clash. Nigeria’s starting XI for this important match has been revealed, and it showcases a blend of youth and experience aimed at securing crucial qualification points.
Nigeria’s Starting XI Breakdown
Nigeria’s lineup for the match highlights key players who have proven themselves on the international stage, as well as some exciting talents who are looking to make an impact.
The Super Eagles will aim to use their strong defense and powerful attacking options to break down Rwanda’s setup.
Starting XI:
- Nwabali (Goalkeeper)
- Ekong (C) – Centre-back
- Aina – Full-back
- Ajayi – Centre-back
- Onyemaechi – Full-back
- Bassey – Defender
- Ndidi – Defensive Midfielder
- Dele-Bashiru – Midfielder
- Lookman – Winger
- Chukwueze – Winger
- Boniface – Striker
Substitutes:
- Okoye, Obasogie (Goalkeepers)
- Iheanacho, Osimhen, Onyeka, Simon, Awoniyi, Onyedika, Tanimu, Ndah, Alhassan, Iwobi
Tactics and Formation
Nigeria is expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation, utilizing the speed of their wingers, Lookman and Chukwueze, to stretch Rwanda’s defense. Boniface will likely be the focal point of the attack, supported by crosses and through balls from the wide players and midfield. The midfield duo of Ndidi and Dele-Bashiru will aim to control the center of the park, breaking up play and distributing the ball effectively to the front line.
Defensive Setup:
With Ekong marshalling the defense alongside Ajayi and Aina, Nigeria will look to keep a tight defensive line to counter any potential threats from Rwanda. Nwabali, as the starting goalkeeper, will be crucial in organizing the backline and ensuring communication throughout the match.
Table: Nigeria’s Starting XI and Substitutes
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Nwabali |
| Right-back | Aina |
| Center-back | Ekong (C) |
| Center-back | Ajayi |
| Left-back | Onyemaechi |
| Defensive Midfielder | Ndidi |
| Central Midfielder | Dele-Bashiru |
| Winger (Right) | Chukwueze |
| Winger (Left) | Lookman |
| Striker | Boniface |
| Substitutes | Okoye, Obasogie, Iheanacho, Osimhen, Onyeka, Simon, Awoniyi, Onyedika, Tanimu, Ndah, Alhassan, Iwobi |
