Super Eagles boss Eric Chelle has named his starting XI for Nigeria’s second 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Guinea-Bissau, with Taiwo Awoniyi handed his first start in nearly three years, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles travel to the Estadio 24 de Setembro in Bissau looking to build on their 2-1 victory over Madagascar in their opening Group L fixture.
Stanley Nwabali retains his place in goal, while Bright Osayi-Samuel replaces Ola Aina at right-back.
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Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi continue their partnership at the heart of the defence, with Bruno Onyemaechi also keeping his place at left-back.
In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi starts alongside Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi, with Chelle opting for a more physical setup for the away clash.
Ademola Lookman keeps his place in the attacking line, while Akor Adams also starts after featuring against Madagascar.
The major change comes in attack as Awoniyi replaces George Ilenikhena, who misses the game through injury despite scoring on his Super Eagles debut against Madagascar.
Awoniyi will be making his first start for Nigeria in almost three years, with the Coventry City forward handed the chance to lead the attack alongside Lookman and Adams.
Meanwhile, Guinea-Bissau have also named a strong starting XI after opening their qualifying campaign with a 2-0 win over Tanzania.
Fernando Embadje starts in goal, with Jefferson Encada, Opa Sangante, Victor Rofino and Cassama forming the back four.
Dalcio, Ronaldo Vieira and Renato Nhaga occupy the midfield, while Mama Balde, Beto and Dju lead the attack for the Djurtus.
Both Nigeria and Guinea-Bissau claimed victories in their opening qualifiers and will be targeting another three points in Bissau.
Super Eagles XI: Stanley Nwabali; Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bruno Onyemaechi; Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi; Ademola Lookman, Taiwo Awoniyi, Akor Adams.
Guinea-Bissau XI: Fernando Embadje; Jefferson Encada, Opa Sangante, Victor Rofino, Cassama; Dalcio, Ronaldo Vieira, Renato Nhaga; Mama Balde, Beto, Dju.
