Super Eagles Reveal Starting XI For World Cup Playoff Showdown With DR Congo

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have confirmed their starting line-up for tonight’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Stanley Nwabali, who had been a doubt earlier in the week, has passed a late fitness test and will start in goal. His recovery is a relief for supporters who feared he might miss the next step of Nigeria’s World Cup journey.

Benjamin Fredrick, the young defender who has continued to grow in confidence, gets the nod at right-back, while Zaidu Sanusi holds down the left side. Semi Ajayi returns to the centre of defence after serving his suspension, partnering Calvin Bassey in a pairing expected to keep things steady at the back.

The midfield will be marshalled by Wilfred Ndidi, who wears the captain’s armband. He is joined by Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi. The trio has been tasked with keeping control of the middle and linking the play with the forwards.

On the flanks, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze will be aiming to stretch the Congolese defence with their pace and direct play. Leading the attack is Victor Osimhen, who remains the central figure in Nigeria’s push for a place at the 2026 World Cup.

Starting Eleven: Nwabali; Fredrick, Sanusi, Ndidi (C), Ajayi, Lookman, Onyeka, Osimhen, Chukwueze, Iwobi, Bassey.

Substitutes: Okoye, Ekong, Ejuke, Adams, Osayi, Arokodare, Simon, Onyemaechi, Abdullahi, Obasogie, Adike, Awaziem.

Note that the World Cup playoff will kick off at 8 p.m. tonight in Rabat, Morocco.

Source: Naijanews