The Super Eagles return to action on Wednesday when they face Poland in Warsaw, and while the fixture may be a friendly on paper, it is another opportunity for Eric Chelle to continue shaping his team ahead of future competitive assignments, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria will travel into the game without two of their biggest attacking stars. Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman are among the notable absentees from the squad, forcing Chelle to look elsewhere as he prepares for a tough evening against a Polish side playing in front of their home supporters.
Even with those absences, the Super Eagles still have plenty of experience available across the pitch, and the starting lineup is beginning to take shape based on the players currently in camp.
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Maduka Okoye looks the favourite to start in goal. The Udinese goalkeeper has re established himself in the national team picture and will likely get the nod for a match that is expected to test Nigeria’s defensive organisation.
Ahead of him, Bright Osayi Samuel could continue at right back, with Bruno Onyemaechi expected to occupy the opposite flank. Both players offer energy going forward and should have an important role to play whenever Nigeria look to break quickly.
In central defence, Calvin Bassey appears almost certain to start. The Fulham defender has become one of the most reliable figures in the squad and could be partnered by Semi Ajayi, whose experience at international level may prove valuable against a physically strong Polish attack.
The midfield is where Chelle may rely heavily on familiar faces.
Wilfred Ndidi is expected to sit at the base of the midfield and provide protection for the back four. Alongside him, Raphael Onyedika’s work rate and ball winning qualities make him a strong candidate for a starting place.
Further forward, Alex Iwobi should be handed the responsibility of linking midfield and attack. The former Arsenal man has become one of Nigeria’s most influential players in recent years, and much of the team’s creativity is likely to flow through him in Warsaw.
The attack is where things become particularly interesting.
Moses Simon is expected to keep his place on the left wing after another productive season at club level. His pace, direct running and ability to create chances make him one of Nigeria’s most dependable attacking options.
On the opposite side, Akor Adams could be handed an opportunity to impress from the start. The striker is capable of operating across the front line and may provide the physical presence and movement needed to trouble Poland’s defence.
Leading the attack, Paul Onuachu looks the most likely option. With Osimhen unavailable, the towering striker offers a different type of threat and gives Nigeria a focal point in the final third. His ability in the air could become an important weapon if the visitors find themselves under pressure during the game.
If Chelle sticks with what appears to be the safest and most balanced option available to him, Nigeria’s starting lineup could read: Okoye; Osayi Samuel, Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Onyedika, Iwobi; Akor Adams, Onuachu, Simon.
The result may not define anything at this stage, but individual performances certainly will. Several players have a chance to strengthen their standing under Chelle, while others will be eager to show they can step up when some of the team’s biggest names are unavailable.
Against a respected European opponent away from home, the Super Eagles are unlikely to get an easy ride. What they can do, however, is offer a glimpse of the direction Chelle wants this team to take, and the lineup he sends onto the pitch could provide the first clues.
