Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is poised to shuffle his starting lineup for Nigeria's final Group C match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations against Uganda. With qualification to the knockout stages already secured, the fixture presents a prime opportunity to test squad depth.
Chelle's Rotation Policy for Final Group Game
Nigeria booked its place in the Round of 16 following a dramatic 3-2 victory over Tunisia on matchday two. This result has afforded Chelle the flexibility to manage his players' fitness ahead of the knockout phase. During his pre-match press conference at the Complexe Sportif de Fes, the coach hinted at changes, emphasizing the importance of the entire squad.
"The competition is not only for the starting 11; everybody deserves a chance to play and show what they can offer the team," Chelle stated, as reported by the NFF. "Sometimes, a player who makes a cameo appearance can change the outcome of games and even win a tournament."
Five Players in Line for a Starting Berth
With Chelle expected to rest key figures, several fringe players are in contention to make their first tournament start against the Cranes of Uganda. Here are the five most likely candidates:
1. Ebenezer Akinsanmiro: The Inter Milan-owned midfielder has been a popular pick among Nigerian fans calling for his inclusion. His impressive showing in the pre-tournament friendly against Egypt, coupled with Nigeria only needing a point against Uganda, could see him finally get significant minutes.
2. Raphael Onyedika: Despite his stellar performances for Club Brugge in the UEFA Champions League, Onyedika has found playing time limited under Chelle. This match represents a perfect chance for the dynamic midfielder to stake his claim for a more regular role.
3. Francis Uzoho: The experienced goalkeeper was a late addition to the 28-man squad following Maduka Okoye's withdrawal. With reported fitness concerns over first-choice keeper Stanley Nwabali, Uzoho, a veteran of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, could be next in line to start.
4. Ryan Alebiosu: The young right-back, an Arsenal academy graduate, earned his call-up after Ola Aina failed to recover from a hamstring injury. Alebiosu's exciting form in the EFL Championship has fans eager to see him in action, and this match offers that platform.
5. Paul Onuachu: The Trabzonspor striker's prolific form earned his national team recall. After a substitute appearance against Tanzania and being an unused sub versus Tunisia, Onuachu could lead the line alongside Akor Adams to give Victor Osimhen a rest.
Injury Concerns for Key Stars
Chelle confirmed three major injury doubts ahead of the Uganda clash. The coach named Victor Osimhen, Frank Onyeka, and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali as the players with significant issues, further justifying the need for rotation. Other squad members are also managing minor fitness concerns.
Honourable mentions for potential starters include defender Chidozie Awaziem and winger Moses Simon, who could also see increased roles. Nigeria's final group game against Uganda is scheduled for Tuesday, December 30, 2025, in Morocco.
