The Super Eagles face an important attacking selection decision ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania. Head coach Éric Chelle must identify a reliable goalscoring option following Victor Osimhen’s absence through injury. With six forwards in his 24-man squad, several players have an opportunity to establish themselves as Nigeria’s attacking leader.
Tolu Arokodare arrives with the strongest recent goalscoring numbers. The Ajax striker has registered 12 goals and four assists in 16 appearances across all competitions this season. His latest performance produced two goals and an assist in Ajax’s 6-1 victory over FC Midtjylland on November 5. Meanwhile, Taiwo Awoniyi scored in Coventry City’s 3-1 victory over Sunderland on October 31. Akor Adams has also registered two league goals for Venezia this season.
Tolu Arokodare leads the race for the number nine position
Among Chelle’s available options, Arokodare currently presents the strongest case. The 25-year-old has demonstrated impressive consistency in front of goal. His physical presence also gives Nigeria another dimension in attack.
Tolu Arokodare offers an aerial threat. He can occupy opposing defenders and create opportunities inside crowded penalty areas. His ability to hold up possession could also help Nigeria bring midfield runners into attacking positions.
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His recent European performances strengthen his position. Before his brace against Midtjylland, Arokodare scored against AZ Alkmaar and Sparta Rotterdam in consecutive Eredivisie matches.
Three consecutive matches with goals underline his current confidence. If he maintains that level, he could become Chelle’s preferred centre-forward.
Awoniyi offers experience and physical presence
Taiwo Awoniyi represents another credible option. The Coventry City forward brings experience, physical strength and intelligent movement behind defensive lines.
His recent goal against Sunderland demonstrated his ability to contribute in important moments. However, he failed to score in Coventry’s subsequent 3-1 defeat against Everton on November 6.
Awoniyi’s greatest advantage lies in his direct approach. He can stretch defensive lines with his runs and compete physically against opposing centre-backs.
His experience could prove particularly valuable in the away fixture. However, his recent scoring output does not currently match Arokodare’s.
Akor Adams provides another attacking alternative
Akor Adams also deserves consideration. The Venezia forward has registered two Serie A goals in 11 appearances this season.
The Nigerian offers physical strength and the ability to attack spaces around opposing defenders. He can operate as a central striker and provide another option when Nigeria need greater presence inside the penalty area.
However, his current goalscoring numbers place him behind Arokodare. He will need to translate his club performances into greater productivity for the national team.
Lookman and Simon could change the attacking equation
Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon offer different attacking qualities.
Lookman is particularly dangerous when operating from the left. His acceleration, dribbling and ability to cut inside make him a serious threat around the penalty area.
He has recorded two goals and one assist in 15 appearances across competitions for Atlético Madrid this season. Although his output has not reached previous levels, his ability to create chances remains important.
Simon offers another dimension through his pace and direct running. He can stretch defensive lines and deliver dangerous crosses from wide positions.
Their inclusion means Chelle does not necessarily need to rely on a traditional centre-forward throughout both matches.
Moses Usor also provides another attacking possibility. He scored on his Super Eagles debut against Madagascar and has registered an assist in the UEFA Champions League this season for LASK.
Chelle faces an important decision
Nigeria currently occupy second position in Group L with three points from two matches. Guinea-Bissau lead the group with six points. Tanzania and Madagascar have one point each.
The Super Eagles need maximum points from both encounters. They host Tanzania in Uyo on November 13 before travelling to Zanzibar for the return fixture on November 17.
Osimhen’s absence leaves a significant responsibility for the available forwards. Kelechi Iheanacho and George Ilenikhena also miss out on this selection.
Arokodare appears to have the strongest claim to lead the attack. Nevertheless, Awoniyi and Adams offer Chelle different tactical possibilities.
Ultimately, the coach must decide whether Nigeria need a physical centre-forward, a mobile attacking combination or a mixture of both.
The choice could prove decisive in determining how effectively the Super Eagles approach these crucial qualifiers.
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