WCQ: Chelle Benches Ekong As Osimhen, Lookman Lead Must-win Battle Against Rwanda

In a bold tactical move, Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle has left out the team’s captain, William Troost-Ekong from the starting lineup for Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda.

The 32-year-old defender, who was the first to arrive in camp for the double-header has been replaced by 20-year-old Benjamin Fredrick.

The FCV Dender EH youngster will make just his second appearance for the national team, partnering Calvin Bassey in the heart of Nigeria’s defence.

With Troost-Ekong on the bench, Wilfred Ndidi will wear the captain’s armband for the day. The Leicester City midfielder will marshal the middle of the park alongside Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka.

The Super Eagles’ attack looks sharp on paper, with Victor Osimhen leading the line.

Osimhen will be supported by Moses Simon and Ademola Lookman, whose inclusion has raised eyebrows given his lack of playing time at Atalanta this season.

Between the sticks, Stanley Nwabali has shaken off a recent injury scare to start in goal, while Ola Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi complete the defensive setup.

Nigeria currently sit a disappointing fourth in Group A, with just seven points from six matches. Saturday’s encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State is seen as a must-win if the Eagles were to revive their hopes of making it to the 2026 World Cup.

The match was scheduled to kick-off at 5 p.m. Nigerian time.

The Super Eagles Starting squad include Stanley Nwabali; Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Benjamin Fredrick, Bruno Onyemaechi, Wilfred Ndidi (C), Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka; Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen.