Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle faces a major selection headache upfront as Nigeria begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Madagascar on Friday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has been ruled out of the Group L opener after picking up a muscle injury in the 33rd minute of his club’s league clash against Başakşehir. The NFF confirmed the 27-year-old will miss both September qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
The absence has opened a straight battle for the number 9 role between Nottingham Forest forward Taiwo Awoniyi and Genk hitman Tolu Arokodare.
Arokodare vs Awoniyi: Who Leads The Line?
Awoniyi has been recalled to the national team after a long absence, offering Chelle physical presence, aerial threat and direct running behind the defence.
Arokodare, on the other hand, comes into camp in red-hot club form and is seen as the more mobile option, capable of linking play and pressing from the front. He is part of the other forward options available alongside Akor Adams and debutant George Ilenikhena.
Chelle is expected to choose between Awoniyi’s experience and Arokodare’s current form to lead a front three that includes Ademola Lookman on the left.
Ilenikhena is tipped as the wildcard on the right side of the attack, while Lookman provides cutting inside threat.
The predicted front three is: Lookman — Awoniyi/Arokodare — Ilenikhena
Nwabali Returns, Aina Back In Defence
In goal, Stanley Nwabali is expected to reclaim the number one shirt ahead of new invitee Arthur Okonkwo and Maduka Okoye, who was delayed in Italy due to club commitments.
Ola Aina returns at right-back after missing AFCON 2025 through injury. He will join Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and Bruno Onyemaechi in defence. Benjamin Fredricks, Bright Osayi-Samuel and debutant Isaac James are defensive alternatives.
In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka will provide the shield, freeing Alex Iwobi to operate in an advanced creative role.
Predicted XI vs Madagascar (4-3-3)
Nwabali; Aina, Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Onyeka, Iwobi; Lookman, Awoniyi, Ilenikhena
Match Details
Competition: 2027 AFCON Qualifier, Group L
Match: Nigeria vs Madagascar
Date: Friday, September 25, 2026
Kick-off: 5pm Nigerian time
Venue: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo
Coach: Eric Chelle
