Wilfred Ndidi will lead the Super Eagles out against South Africa in Friday’s Africa’s 2026 World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio stadium, playing as a centre-back.
Benjamin Tanimu will play alongside Semi Ajayi in the heart of the Eagles’ defence.
The duo will be flanked by Fenerbahce star Bright Osayi-Samuel at right-back, while Fulham defender Calvin Bassey will play at left-back, Ndidi, who will be a free agent at the end of this month when his contract at Leicester City runs out will play in the heart of the midfield.
It was also learnt that Finidi George handed a starting berth to Hatayspor star Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in midfield. He will play alongside Ndidi and Alex Iwobi.
In attack, George preferred Paul Onuachu to lead the Eagles’ line rather than Victor Boniface, who inspired Bayer Leverkusen to a double this outgoing season. Onuachu will be supported by Ademola Lookman and Kelechi Iheanacho on the wings.
The former Genk striker made 25 appearances last season for Trabzonspor, scoring an impressive 17 goals. He’s contracted to Southampton until June 2026.
Nigeria are currently fifth in Group C after Lesotho secured an important 2-0 away victory over Zimbabwe at the Johannesburg Stadium in South Africa on Friday afternoon to go top of Group C in Africa’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
A high-scoring win over the Bafana Bafana in Uyo will see the Eagles go top of the group. Friday’s results in Uyo will have a significant impact on the standings and the hopes of each nation to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
