Sh*ck In Super Eagles Camp! Troost-Ekong Benched As Rookie Fredrick Gets First Start Against Rwanda

The experienced defender, long considered a pillar in the Super Eagles’ backline, has been dropped to allow rising star Benjamin Fredrick to step in.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The 19-year-old, who impressed in recent friendlies in London and Moscow, will form a central defensive partnership with Fulham’s Calvin Bassey at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Troost-Ekong’s exclusion is believed to be linked to his costly error that handed Zimbabwe a late equaliser in Nigeria’s last qualifier at the same venue. Head coach Finidi Chelle is now banking on youthful energy to strengthen the defence in what many view as a must-win encounter for Nigeria.

On the flanks, Bruno Onyemaechi of PAS Giannina takes the left-back role ahead of Felix Agu, while Torino’s Ola Aina retains his spot on the right. Wilfred Ndidi, fully fit again with Besiktas, will wear the captain’s armband and anchor the midfield alongside Brentford’s Frank Onyeka and Fulham playmaker Alex Iwobi.

Leading the attack is Victor Osimhen, who has found form with Galatasaray, netting twice in his last two games. He will be supported by Nantes winger Moses Simon and reigning African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman, who returns to competitive action after a transfer standoff with Atalanta. Lookman’s comeback is expected to inject additional firepower into Nigeria’s frontline.

Kickoff is set for 5:00 pm Nigerian time in Uyo.

Nigeria XI vs Rwanda: Nwabali; Aina, Fredrick, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Onyeka, Iwobi; Lookman, Simon, Osimhen.

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