Nigeria vs Rwanda: Eric Chelle drops captain Troost-Ekong from Super Eagles lineup

In a surprise headline for Nigeria’s World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has dropped captain William Troost-Ekong from the starting XI.

Taking his place is Benjamin Fredrick, who will make his first competitive start after impressing during the Unity Cup.

With only three training sessions under Chelle and mounting pressure to deliver a win, the tactical switch signals a shift in strategy and fresh motivation for the squad ahead of this crucial qualifier in Uyo.

The lineup, released ahead of kickoff in Uyo, sees Wilfred Ndidi wear the captain’s armband, while Victor Osimhenleads the attack alongside Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon.

Goalkeeper: Stanley NwabaliDefence: Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Bruno Onyemaechi, Benjamin Fredrick

Midfield: Wilfred Ndidi (C), Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka

Attack: Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Victor Osimhen

Adebayo, Ekong, Awaziem, Arokodare, Chukwueze, Osayi, Dele-Bashiru, Obasogie, Uche, Dessers, Onyedika, Agu Felix

This marks a new dawn in Nigeria’s defence, as 19-year-old Fredrick, who impressed during the Unity Cup friendlies earlier this year, steps into the heart of the backline

.Chelle had hinted at changes during his pre-match press conference, stressing that every player in the squad “deserves to be here” and could feature at any moment.

Meanwhile, Ndidi’s leadership in midfield will be pivotal, with support from Iwobi and Onyeka, as Nigeria seeks a vital win to boost their qualification campaign after a shaky start in Group C.

The match against Rwanda is seen as a must-win for the Super Eagles, who sit in a precarious position and need momentum ahead of their next qualifier against South Africa.