Super Eagles XI for South Africa Showdown

Nigeria face South Africa in a must-win World Cup qualifier.
Kick-off set for 5:00 p.m. Nigerian time in Bloemfontein.
Nwabali starts in goal; Ekong leads as captain.

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has announced his starting XI for Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa.

Eko Hot Blog reports that the match is currently ongoing at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.

Stanley Nwabali retains his place in goal, with a solid backline led by captain William Troost-Ekong.

Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, and Benjamin Fredrick complete the defence.

Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi anchor the midfield, while forwards Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Cyriel Dessers are tasked with leading the attack. Tolu Arokodare and Samuel Chukwueze are among the options available from the bench.

Starting XI vs South Africa:

Stanley Nwabali (23)
Ola Aina (2)
Wilfred Ndidi (4)
William Troost-Ekong (5) – Captain
Ademola Lookman (7)
Benjamin Fredrick (13)
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (14)
Moses Simon (15)
Alex Iwobi (17)
Cyriel Dessers (19)
Calvin Bassey (21)

Substitutes:

Luton Town striker Elijah Adebayo
Frank Onyeka
Chidozie Awaziem
Tolu Arokodare
Samuel Chukwueze
Bright Osayi-Samuel
Kenneth Uche
Bruno Onyemaechi
Amas Obasogie
Raphael Onyedika Agu
Tochukwu Nwadike

FURTHER READING