In a surprising move ahead of a crucial warm-up match, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has reportedly decided to drop first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali for the international friendly against Egypt.
Goalkeeping Shuffle Ahead of AFCON
The high-profile friendly, which is set for December 16 at the Cairo International Stadium, will now see Francis Uzoho of Omonia Nicosia take the starting spot between the posts. This decision comes amidst concerns over Nwabali's fitness, despite his inclusion in the final 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
According to reports, Chelle is not willing to risk the Chippa United goalkeeper, who has not been declared fully match-fit. The concerns stem from injuries highlighted by his club coach, Vusimuzi Vilakazi, who stated Nwabali was dealing with an ankle issue and a hand injury that worsened during the World Cup playoffs and required surgery.
New Faces and Expected Lineup Against Pharaohs
With Uzoho starting, Bendel Insurance's Amas Obasogie is expected to replace him in the second half, offering a chance for the domestic league star to impress. Uzoho, who has 36 senior caps, will be looking to reclaim his status after falling down the pecking order before the 2023 AFCON.
In attack, with Victor Osimhen absent, Turkish Super Lig top scorer Paul Onuachu is expected to lead the line. He is likely to be supported on the wings by Ademola Lookman and Chidera Ejuke, while Cyriel Dessers is anticipated to feature in the second half.
The defence will see the first-choice pairing of Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey, alongside Igoh Ogbu. The full-back roles are set to be occupied by Bright Osayi-Samuel on the right and Zaidu Sanusi on the left. The midfield is projected to feature a new pairing of Ebenezer Akinsamiro and Raphael Onyedika.
Opportunity for Debutants
This friendly serves as a final audition for several players before the continental tournament kicks off. The match will feature first-time appearances for Tochukwu Nnadi, Ryan Alebiosu, and Ebenezer Akinsamiro, giving these new faces a critical opportunity to stake their claim for a role in the AFCON campaign.
Nigeria is placed in Group C of the 2025 AFCON alongside Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda. Their first match is scheduled for December 23 against the Taifa Stars of Tanzania.
The omission of another goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, from the final squad had previously sparked discussions. The Nigeria Football Federation clarified that the Udinese goalkeeper requested to be excluded to focus on his club duties.
