Selection headache for Chelle as Bassey suspended, Osimhen doubtful for Egypt clash

Nigeria manager Eric Chelle has a selection dilemma on his hands as the Super Eagles prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations third-place playoff against Egypt, following the suspension of defender Calvin Bassey.

The Fulham centre-back was booked during Nigeria’s semi-final penalty shootout defeat to host nation Morocco, earning his second yellow card of the knockout stages and triggering a one-match ban.

Bassey had earlier been cautioned in the first half for a challenge on Brahim Diaz, a decision that drew criticism from many observers.

His absence means Chelle must reorganize his back line as Nigeria targets a bronze-medal finish at AFCON 2025.

Chidozie Awaziem is the leading candidate to replace Bassey in central defence. The experienced defender has already deputised effectively during the tournament, most notably when he replaced Bassey at halftime in Nigeria’s final group-stage match against Uganda.

Awaziem is expected to partner Semi Ajayi at the heart of the Super Eagles’ defence for the encounter at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.

Nigeria’s preparations have also been complicated by concerns over the fitness of star striker Victor Osimhen.

The Galatasaray forward picked up an ankle injury during the semi-final and was forced off late in extra time, just moments before the penalty shootout.

Chelle later explained that Osimhen’s substitution was both precautionary and tactical.

“Since the beginning of this Africa Cup of Nations, we have practiced penalties at every training session,” Chelle told reporters.

“Statistically, the players who took the penalties were the best, and that’s why we made changes to bring in the players who were going to shoot.”

“Victor had a small injury to his ankle, and that’s why we brought in Paul [Onuachu], who statistically was one of the best shooters of this period,” he added, also referencing the introduction of Samuel Chukwueze.

Should Osimhen be ruled out of the third-place playoff, Akor Adams is expected to lead the line. He would likely be supported by Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon on the wings, maintaining Nigeria’s familiar attacking shape.

In a boost for Chelle, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is available again after serving his suspension and is expected to return to the starting lineup. His presence could add balance and control in midfield as Nigeria seeks to finish the tournament strongly.

With a long-standing record of never finishing fourth at an AFCON tournament, the Super Eagles are expected to field a competitive side against Egypt.

Nwabali, Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Awaziem, Onyemaechi, Ndidi, Onyeka, Iwobi, Lookman, Adams, Simon