Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has included William Troost-Ekong and Ademola Lookman in his starting XI for Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifier against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana on Tuesday.
The match is a decisive encounter in the race to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with both teams seeking to strengthen their qualification hopes.
Troost-Ekong returns to central defence after a spell on the sidelines and will captain the team, bringing leadership and stability to the backline. Lookman, coming off an impressive club season, is expected to inject pace and creativity from the flanks.
Chelle said he was banking on a blend of youth and experience as Nigeria looks to maintain its edge over South Africa in recent meetings.
The Super Eagles enter the tie under pressure to deliver, following inconsistent results in earlier qualifiers. For South Africa, coach Hugo Broos’ men are brimming with confidence, topping the group standings and aiming to frustrate Nigeria while capitalising on defensive lapses.
With both sides boasting in-form players, the fixture promises to be fiercely contested. Kick-off is scheduled for 5 p.m., with fans expected to create an electric atmosphere as Nigeria seeks a vital victory on home soil.
Super Eagles Line-up vs South Africa
23 . Nwabali
- Aina
- Ndidi
- Ekong (Captain)
- Lookman
- Frederick
- Dele Bashiru
- Simon
- Iwobi
- Dessers
- Bassey
Substitutes: Adebayo, Onyeka, Awaziem, Arokodare, Chukwueze, Osayi, Uche, Onyemaechi, Obasogie, Agu, Nwadike.
