Head coach Eric Chelle is poised to unleash Nigeria's strongest available side as the Super Eagles prepare for a crucial Africa Cup of Nations knockout match against Mozambique on Monday, January 5, 2026.
Rotation Pays Off, Stars Set for Return
Having already secured qualification from Group C with perfect wins over Tanzania and Tunisia, Chelle utilized the final group match against Uganda to rotate his squad. The Franco-Malian manager made a staggering eight changes, resting key figures including Ademola Lookman, Stanley Nwabali, Alex Iwobi, and captain Wilfred Ndidi.
This strategy proved successful, with stand-ins like Raphael Onyedika, who scored a brace, and Paul Onuachu grabbing a goal in a vital victory. The result ensured Nigeria topped their group, setting up a Round of 16 encounter with Group F's third-placed team, Mozambique.
Predicted Starting Lineup for the Knockout Stage
While Chelle kept his cards close to his chest during the pre-match press conference, all indications point to a return to his preferred first-choice players for the do-or-die fixture.
In goal, Stanley Nwabali is expected to reclaim his spot from Francis Uzoho, despite the latter's competent performance against Uganda. Nwabali has been playing through pain at the tournament but remains the undisputed number one.
The defence is likely to see a complete reshuffle. Semi Ajayi and Bright Osayi-Samuel, who were rested entirely, should return. Calvin Bassey and Bruno Onyemaechi, who played limited minutes (45 and 77 respectively), are projected to complete the back four.
The midfield engine room will welcome back the experience of captain Wilfred Ndidi and playmaker Alex Iwobi. Chelle's main selection headache appears to be choosing between the in-form Raphael Onyedika and the reliable Frank Onyeka to partner them. Whichever player starts, the other is anticipated to feature significantly from the bench.
In attack, the 2024 African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, is set to return to operate from the left and in support of a strike duo led by Victor Osimhen, with Akor Adams partnering him up front.
Looking to Avoid Past Heartbreak
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has noted that Chelle and his team are determined to avoid a repeat of the disappointment from AFCON 2021. On that occasion, the Super Eagles were eliminated in the Round of 16 despite a flawless group stage performance.
The stakes are high, as victory over Mozambique would set up a daunting quarter-final clash against the winner of the match between Algeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Nigerian fans can catch the live broadcast on SuperSport channels available on DStv and GoTV. For francophone audiences across Africa, the match will be shown on Canal+ Afrique.
