Nigeria have confirmed their starting XI for their Unity Cup clash against Zimbabwe, with head coach Eric Sekou Chelle naming his squad for the encounter at The Valley Stadium in Charlton, South East London, home of Charlton Athletic Football Club.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:45 PM local time (UK time) on matchday, as the Super Eagles begin another important international test in their ongoing squad rebuilding phase.
Goalkeeper Okonkwo makes his first-ever start for the Nigerian national team, stepping into the spotlight as Chelle evaluates his goalkeeping options.
Midfielder Azeez Beloso also earns his first senior start for the Super Eagles, reflecting the coach’s decision to reward strong performances in training and recent camp sessions.
Both players are part of a broader squad rotation strategy as Nigeria continue to blend experienced internationals with emerging talents.
Terem Moffi Leads The Attack
Forward Terem Igobor Moffi captains the side and leads the attacking line for Nigeria. He has recently featured in competitive matches at club level and remains one of the team’s most consistent attacking threats.
Moffi has scored important goals in recent outings and continues to build momentum after returning to full rhythm, offering Nigeria a focal point in attack against Zimbabwe.
Defensive Setup And Midfield Structure
Nigeria’s defensive line is built around Igoh Ogbu, Obinna Igboke, Chibuike Nwaiwu, and Chibueze Oputa, operating in a back four shielded by goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo.
In midfield, Tochukwu Nnadi operates centrally with Samson Tijani and Aderemi Adeoye providing support in deeper and transitional roles, focusing on ball progression, retention, and defensive coverage.
Rafiu Durosinmi starts from the bench alongside Uzoho, Atata, Oyedokun, Adeoye, Elias, Oseni, Ayobami, and Tijani.
Full Nigeria Starting XI vs Zimbabwe
Okonkwo
Oputa
Igboke
Abdullahi
Ogbu
Nwaiwu
Azeez Beloso
Nnadi
Terem Moffi (C)
Tijani
Otele
Nigeria enter the fixture as one of the standout teams in the Unity Cup, using the tournament to test squad depth and assess new international options.
The encounter at The Valley Stadium offers Eric Chelle another opportunity to evaluate his evolving squad structure ahead of future international competitions.
Zimbabwe, meanwhile, arrive with the aim of challenging Nigeria’s dominance in the fixture and disrupting their rhythm in London.
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