AFCON 2025: Iwobi missing as Osimhen leads Super Eagles' possible line-up against Tanzania

Nigeria will begin its 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a Group C opener against Tanzania on Tuesday evening.

With expectations high, head coach Eric Chelle faces key decisions over team selection, balancing form, fitness, and tactical intent for a match Nigeria is widely expected to control.

A strong start is seen as important in setting the tone for the tournament, Here is Eric Chelle's predicted starting line-up

Despite mixed performances in World Cup qualifiers, Stanley Nwabali is expected to continue as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper.

His place appears secure following Maduka Okoye’s decision to remain with Serie A side Udinese rather than report for international duty.

Nigeria’s defence will look different from the qualifiers as Young defender Benjamin Fredrick is unavailable due to a knee injury, while long-serving captain and 2023 AFCON MVP William Troost-Ekong has retired from international football.

As a result, Bright Osayi-Samuel is likely to start at right-back, with Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey forming the central defensive pairing. Zaidu Sanusi is expected to occupy the left-back position.

Chelle has shown a preference for an attack-oriented setup, particularly against opponents Nigeria is expected to dominate.

That approach was evident in the Super Eagles’ 4–1 victory over Gabon in a World Cup qualifying semi-final, and a similar system is anticipated against Tanzania.

Wilfred Ndidi is expected to operate as the holding midfielder, tasked with shielding the defence and maintaining balance.

Ahead of him will be a surprise as Eric Chelle might want to test a new invitee, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro to lead the creativity alongside Frank Onyeka.

Samuel Chukwueze is tipped to start on the right wing, with Ademola Lookman on the left, and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen is expected to lead the line.

Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali

Defenders: Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Zaidu Sanusi

Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro

Forwards: Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman