Nigeria’s narrow 2–1 victory over Lesotho on Friday offered more than just three points, it provided a clearer picture of the Super Eagles’ attacking options ahead of a decisive World Cup qualifier against Benin, Footynaija.com reports.
With Ademola Lookman ruled out of the upcoming clash through suspension, head coach Eric Chelle faces a selection headache in attack before Tuesday’s fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Chelle deployed both Akor Adams and Tolu Arokodare alongside Victor Osimhen in attack against Lesotho and after watching both players, fans are asking one key question: who should start alongside Osimhen in Uyo? Especially with Lookman’s absence.
Arokodare vs Adams in Polokwane
Arokodare started Friday’s match in Polokwane, leading the line with Osimhen. On paper, it was a logical decision. The Wolves forward offers height, strength and the kind of traditional target-man profile that can trouble defenders in the air.
But in reality, the partnership struggled to click. Arokodare fought hard but found little rhythm in open play and Osimhen often dropped deeper in search of service. The Super Eagles lacked fluidity and incision for much of the first half.
Adams’ introduction from the bench proved to be the turning point for Nigeria’s attack. The Sevilla striker immediately added pace and movement, linking up seamlessly with Osimhen and forcing Lesotho’s back line into mistakes.
His sharp off-the-ball runs and quick exchanges created a new dynamic, and it was no surprise when he combined with Osimhen for the decisive goal, following a sweeping move that displayed both chemistry and confidence.
Adams’ performance showed what the Super Eagles attack could look like when built on mobility rather than mere physicality and for a side often criticised for being too predictable in transition, that variety was refreshing to see.
Who should partner Osimhen upfront against Benin?
Benin are expected to defend deep and compact in Uyo, relying on structure and counter-attacks to frustrate the Super Eagles. In such a setting, Adams’ movement and link-up play seem better suited to help Nigeria unlock Benin’s defense.
The former Montpelier striker’s ability to combine with wingers like Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi or Moses Simon could stretch Benin’s backline and create openings for Osimhen to exploit.
That does not entirely rule out Arokodare, whose aerial presence remains a valuable weapon for the Super Eagles if they need to capitalise on set pieces in the latter stages of the game.
Besides, the Wolves striker has produced some of his best performances in a Super Eagles shirt after coming off the bench. Last month, he grabbed the only goal of the game in Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Rwanda in Uyo after replacing Cyriel Dessers.
But judging by current form and the evidence from yesterday’s game in Polokwane, Adams appears the more natural option to complement Osimhen’s action-packed style of play ahead of the Benin game.
Chelle’s final call could determine the Super Eagles’ fate and with Nigeria’s qualification hopes on a knife’s edge, the partnership that starts in Uyo must be able to produce the goods and potentially deliver that highly coveted World Cup ticket.
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