Super Eagles Head Coach Eric Chelle has unveiled his starting lineup for the high-profile international friendly against Russia at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.
The match kicks off at 6 p.m., and the Nigerian coach has opted for several tweaks to the side that edged Jamaica on penalties to win the Unity Cup in London.
Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye steps into the starting role, replacing Stanley Nwabali, who is absent due to his parents’ burial ceremony. Captain William Troost-Ekong returns to anchor the defence alongside Semi Ajayi, with Osayi-Samuel and Bruno Onyemaechi filling in at right and left back, respectively.
In midfield, Chelle has gone with Raphael Onyedika, Frank Onyeka, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, a balanced approach, combining physicality and technical ability as Nigeria look to control proceedings in Moscow.
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Chrisantus Uche is handed his first start for the national team following his winning penalty in the Unity Cup final while Victor Boniface leads the line, taking the central striker’s role ahead of Tolu Arokodare, who starts from the bench.
Meanwhile, Moses Simon retains his place on the wing after impressing against the Reggae Boyz, scoring the opener in that clash. Among the substitutes are Amas Obasogie, Benjamin Fredrick, Igoh Ogbu, Sadiq Ismaila, Papa Daniel, Saviour Isaac, newly invited winger Olakunle Olusegun, Sikiru Alimi, and Arokodare.
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