The Super Eagles will be looking to continue their strong run at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco when they square up against the Mambas of Mozambique in the round of 16, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria head into Monday’s clash full of confidence, but Eric Chelle still faces a few big calls as the Super Eagles chase a place in the quarterfinals. Mozambique, by contrast, head into the game with the underdog tag as well as a couple of injury concerns.
The Super Eagles, who have been in excellent form so far have most of their key players well rested and ready to feature against the Mambas.
The likes of Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams will likely return to the front line after sitting out the Uganda fixture while Victor Osimhen started all of Nigeria’s group games should retain his starting role.
At the back, Chelle is likely to revert to a trusted defensive unit made up of Bruno Onyemaechi, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and Bright Osayi-Samuel.
In terms of fitness concerns, Cyriel Dessers is still yet to feature, while Ryan Alebiosu has been ruled out after picking up a knock on his debut against Uganda.
Mozambique will be without Diogo Calila and Nene as both are sidelined through injury, reducing Chiquinho Conde’s options in the middle of the park.
Selection dilemma
Eric Chelle’s toughest decision will be his selection of midfield personnel. The Super Eagles were particularly impressive against Tunisia when Chelle deployed three central midfielders, introducing Frank Onyeka in place of Samuel Chukwueze.
That switch brought greater control and intensity, strengthening the case for a 4-3-3 over Chelle’s preferred 4-4-2 diamond.
If Chelle opts for three in midfield again, Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi appear automatic choices. The tougher call is between Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika.
Onyeka’s energy and ball-winning ability stood out against Tunisia, while Onyedika delivered a match-winning brace against Uganda. The Club Brugge man’s goal threat from midfield could give him the edge, but it’s all up to Chelle.
Predicted XIs
Nigeria:
Nwabali; Onyemaechi, Ajayi, Bassey, Osayi-Samuel; Ndidi, Iwobi, Onyedika; Adams, Lookman; Osimhen
Mozambique:
Ernan; Langa, Mexer, Reinildo, Chamboco; Guima, Amade, Pelembe; Catamo, Witi; Ratifo
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