In a major boost for the Super Eagles, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has been passed fit and will start in goal against the Democratic Republic of Congo, headlining the starting eleven revealed by coach Eric Chelle.
In a welcome relief for Nigerian fans, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has been given the all-clear by the medical team and will start between the posts for the crucial African final of the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff. Nwabali had caused concern after an injury scare in the team’s previous 4-1 victory over Gabon.
The Chippa United shot-stopper’s recovery is a significant moment, as he earns his tenth consecutive start in the qualifying campaign, cementing his role as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Coach Eric Chelle has made a key tactical decision in defence, opting for Hull City’s Semi Ajayi to partner with Calvin Bassey at centre-back. This means Chidozie Awaziem, who provided an assist off the bench in the last match, will have to make an impact from the substitutes’ bench. The back four is completed by Benjamin Fredrick at right-back and Zaidu Sanusi on the left.
In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi has also been cleared to play and will join forces with Brentford’s Frank Onyeka and Fulham’s creative force, Alex Iwobi.
As expected, the attack will be led by the talismanic Victor Osimhen. He will be supported by the dynamic wing duo of Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman, forming a formidable front three tasked with breaking down the Congolese defence.
The bench holds plenty of firepower, with forwards like Moses Simon, Akor Adams, and Chidera Ejuke all available as potential game-changers for Chelle.
The stage is now set at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, where the Super Eagles will face the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo with a ticket to the 2026 World Cup on the line.
Confirmed Starting Lineup vs. DR Congo:
Nwabali; Fredrick, Ajayi, Bassey, Sanusi; Ndidi, Onyeka, Iwobi; Lookman, Chukwueze, Osimhen.
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