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Eric Chelle faces selection decisions ahead of Nigeria’s AFCON 2027 qualifier against Madagascar, with Arthur Okonkwo and Tolu Arokodare among the players pushing for starting places.
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Victor Osimhen has withdrawn because of a muscle injury, while Taiwo Awoniyi has reportedly joined the squad as his replacement.
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A proposed starting XI features Okonkwo in goal, Ola Aina in defence, Wilfred Ndidi in midfield and Ademola Lookman in attack.
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Chelle has several alternatives on the bench, including Maduka Okoye, Stanley Nwabali, Moses Simon, Akor Adams and George Ilenikhena.
September 24, (THEWILL) – Nigeria head coach, Eric Chelle, faces several selection decisions as the Super Eagles prepare to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Madagascar in Uyo on Friday.
The Super Eagles will enter the fixture without Victor Osimhen, who withdrew from the squad because of a muscle injury. Taiwo Awoniyi has reportedly been called up as his replacement, leaving Chelle with a decision to make in attack as Nigeria seek a positive start to their qualification campaign.
Okonkwo, Arokodare in Contention for Starting Places
Arthur Okonkwo is among the players competing for a starting position after receiving his first senior call-up in the initial squad announcement.
However, Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye also remain options in goal, making the goalkeeper position one of Chelle’s key decisions.
A possible starting XI published by Sports Mole features Nwabali in goal, with Ola Aina, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and Bruno Onyemaechi forming the defence. Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi are expected to provide the midfield base, while Moses Simon, Akor Adams and Ademola Lookman could lead the attack.
With Osimhen unavailable, Tolu Arokodare and Taiwo Awoniyi are among the alternatives for the central striking role. Arokodare’s recent form with Ajax could strengthen his case, while Awoniyi’s experience provides another option for the coaching staff.
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Possible Nigeria Starting XI vs Madagascar
Formation: 4-3-3
Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali
Defenders: Ola Aina, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi
Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi
Forwards: Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Ademola Lookman
This is a possible line-up, not a confirmed team selection. Chelle could make changes depending on player fitness, tactical requirements and the final training sessions before kick-off.
Super Eagles Players Available on the Bench
Based on the announced qualifying squad and the reported withdrawal of Osimhen, Chelle’s other options include:
Goalkeepers: Arthur Okonkwo, Maduka Okoye
Defenders: Isaac James, Benjamin Fredricks, Emmanuel Fernandez, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Bright Osayi-Samuel
Midfielders: Raphael Onyedika
Forwards: Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare, George Ilenikhena, Moses Usor, Taiwo Awoniyi
The final matchday bench will depend on the players selected in the starting XI and any further squad changes.
Nigeria’s clash with Madagascar carries additional significance after the Super Eagles missed out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Chelle will hope his side can avoid another disappointing result and begin the AFCON qualifying campaign with three points in front of the home supporters.
Olumide Atiba is a sports journalist with THEWILL, known for his keen news sense and compelling storytelling. He has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, well-structured reports that resonate with readers, with a strong focus on football coverage
