Eric Chelle Names First Super Eagles Starting XI: Can His Selection Bring Victory Against Rwanda?
The stage is set for Eric Chelle's much-anticipated debut as the head coach of the Super Eagles, and he has announced his first-ever starting XI ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifier against Rwanda in Kigali.
The team features a promising mix of attacking firepower and midfield control, with the quartet of Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Simon Moses, and Samuel Chukwueze leading the attack. This is a lineup that suggests Chelle is keen on making a statement from the get-go—domination through aggressive forward play.
In the midfield, Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi are expected to provide creativity and stability, while Stanley Nwabali takes charge between the sticks, proving that Chelle isn’t afraid to take calculated risks by trusting new talents.
The backline consists of Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, and captain William Troost-Ekong, a defensive setup that has enough experience and talent to stand firm against the Rwandan attack.
Is Chelle Taking the Right Approach?
Chelle’s selection shows boldness, but is it the right approach? The attack-heavy lineup looks exciting on paper, but there are concerns about the team’s ability to maintain composure and defensive discipline.
Bringing in Stanley Nwabali as the preferred goalkeeper instead of more established options is a move that will attract a lot of scrutiny. However, Chelle’s decision to give Nwabali the nod suggests a desire to inject freshness into the squad. If it works, it could be a masterstroke.
The Pressure of Expectations
As the Super Eagles prepare to take on Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium, Chelle’s tactical decisions will be under the microscope. Nigeria has failed to secure a win in the qualifiers so far, making this match a must-win for the three-time African champions.
Given the underwhelming performance of the Super Eagles in recent games, fans are understandably anxious. Chelle’s emphasis on attack indicates a clear intention to break Nigeria’s winless streak with flair and confidence.
Opinion: This Lineup Deserves a Chance
There’s no doubt that Chelle has gone for a dynamic lineup. His decision to unleash the explosive attacking trio of Osimhen, Lookman, and Chukwueze will put Rwanda’s defense under immense pressure. And with Iwobi and Ndidi working together in midfield, the Super Eagles have every chance of dominating possession.
However, football is unpredictable, and the same excitement that makes this lineup attractive could also be its undoing. If the defensive line lacks proper coordination, especially with a less experienced goalkeeper like Nwabali, things could turn ugly.
Nevertheless, Chelle deserves credit for trying something fresh and bold. As long as the Super Eagles maintain discipline and take their chances, this could be the beginning of a new and exciting era for Nigerian football.
