Super Eagles head coach, Éric Chelle, has unveiled his starting lineup for tonight’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff clash against Gabon.

As expected, Stanley Nwabali retains his place in goal, while the backline features Bright Osayi-Samuel and Zaidu Sanusi as full-backs. Calvin Bassey of Fulham will partner young defender Benjamin Fredrick at the heart of the defence.

Captain Wilfred Ndidi will marshal the midfield alongside Alex Iwobi, who makes his 90th appearance for the Super Eagles.

In attack, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, and Jerome Akor will provide support for Victor Osimhen, who leads the frontline.

Notably, coach Chelle has dropped key players Ademola Lookman and William Troost-Ekong from the starting eleven — a move that has stirred conversations among fans and analysts ahead of the must-win fixture.

🇳🇬 Super Eagles Starting XI vs Gabon:
 Nwabali
 Osayi-Samuel – Fredrick – Bassey – Sanusi
 Ndidi (C) – Iwobi
 Simon – Chukwueze – Akor
 Osimhen

The Super Eagles will be aiming for a strong start in Rabat as they push toward securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup, to be co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico.