Ekong Dropped, Adams Starts As Chelle Announces Starting 11 for Crucial 2026 WCQ vs Benin
- Eric Chelle has announced his starting lineup for the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic
- Chelle made some changes to the squad, with Samuel Chukwueze replacing the suspended Ademola Lookman
- Nigeria must beat its West African neighbours and hope that Rwanda gets a result against South Africa
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has announced his starting lineup to take on Benin Republic in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Nigeria, Benin Republic, and South Africa are battling for Group C's automatic ticket and with two matches taking place in Uyo and Mbombela simultaneously.
Source: Getty Images
Benin Republic is in a good place as they are in control of their destiny. With a win over Nigeria, they will qualify for their first-ever FIFA World Cup.
As noted by the NFF, Nigeria and South Africa have their destinies tied together. Nigeria needs a win against Benin and a South Africa loss or draw, while South Africa needs a win against Rwanda and a Nigeria win against Benin.
The social media space of both countries is divided as Nigerians are wishing for South Africa’s downfall, while Mzansi is praying for Nigeria’s victory.
Chelle announces Super Eagles lineup
Super Eagles boss Chelle has confirmed his starting 11 for the crucial match against Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, as seen on Super Eagles X page.
He retained most of the team that defeated the Crocodiles of Lesotho in Polokwane, with Samuel Chukwueze replacing the suspended Ademola Lookman.
As noted by Soccernet, Chelle made the bold call to drop captain William Troost-Ekong in favour of the returning Semi Ajayi, as the Hull City defender pairs with Calvin Bassey in the heart of defence.
Zaidu Sanusi and Benjamin Frederick will operate in full back, assisting wingers Moses Simon and Chukwueze, with Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi pulling strings in midfield.
Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams are trusted to lead the line in a 4-4-2 formation after their partnership showed promising signs against Lesotho.
Source: Twitter
Full XI
Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali
Defenders: Benjamin Frederick, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Zaidu Sanusi
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze
Forwards: Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams
Nigerians had a few objections to the lineup, particularly with the inclusion of Samuel Chukwueze, whom they have criticised in previous games.
William Troost-Ekong’s exclusion also generated controversy after he was dropped for Semi Ajayi, who has played eight minutes since returning from injury.
Zaidu Sanusi, who is returning to the team for the first time since AFCON 2025, also starts ahead of Bruno Onyemaechi, a move Nigerians didn't see coming.
Ekong sends message to Super Eagles teammates
Legit.ng reported that William Troost-Ekong sent a message to his Super Eagles teammates ahead of the crucial match against Benin Republic.
The captain, who loses his place in the team, urged his teammates to maintain focus regardless of their current situation in the qualifiers and to hope that things will favour them.
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Source: Legit.ng
