Eric Chelle could unleash an aggressive 4-2-2-2 diamond when Nigeria begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo today, Footynaija reports.
The Super Eagles enter the Group L opener without Victor Osimhen, who has withdrawn because of a muscle injury, while Taiwo Awoniyi has been drafted into the squad as his replacement.
Chelle has stressed aggression, intensity and ambition ahead of the encounter, making his preferred system particularly intriguing. A diamond would allow Nigeria to crowd the central areas while giving their attack four players capable of threatening Madagascar from different angles.
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GK: Nwabali gets the gloves
Stanley Nwabali is expected to start in goal ahead of Maduka Okoye and Arthur Okonkwo.
Okoye’s late arrival in camp has strengthened the case for the Chippa United goalkeeper, who brings established international experience into Nigeria’s opening qualifier.
Defence: Aina, Ajayi and Bassey anchor defence
Ola Aina should operate at right-back, with Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey forming the central defensive partnership.
Bruno Onyemaechi completes the back four at left-back, providing the pace to push forward when Nigeria attack.
The selection would give Chelle an experienced defensive unit capable of stepping into midfield during possession while protecting against Madagascar’s counter-attacks.
Midfield: Ndidi and Iwobi control the diamond
Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi should form the central midfield base, with Ndidi providing the defensive security and Iwobi helping Nigeria progress the ball.
The Fulham midfielder’s ability to drift into pockets could become crucial against a Madagascar side expected to defend compactly.
Attack: Lookman and Chukwueze become the weapons
Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze would operate ahead of the midfield base, effectively becoming the diamond’s two attacking midfielders.
Lookman’s ability to drive inside from the left and Chukwueze’s direct running from the opposite side could stretch Madagascar’s defensive shape without requiring traditional wingers.
Strikers: Awoniyi and Akor Adams lead the line
Taiwo Awoniyi is likely to partner Akor Adams in a two-man attack, replacing the injured Osimhen through a change of structure rather than a like-for-like substitution.
Awoniyi can provide the physical focal point, while Adams offers movement and runs behind the defence.
Possible Super Eagles XI (4-2-2-2):
Nwabali; Aina, Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Iwobi; Lookman, Chukwueze; Awoniyi, Akor Adams.
