In a surprising decision, Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle has left captain William Troost-Ekong out of the starting lineup for the Super Eagles’ crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Rwanda.

The 32-year-old defender, who was the first to arrive at the national team camp, is replaced by 20-year-old Benjamin Fredrick.

This will be only Fredrick’s second appearance for Nigeria. He is set to partner Calvin Bassey in central defense for the Eagles.

Without Troost-Ekong, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi will wear the captain’s armband for the match.

The starting lineup reveals an aggressive attack, with Ademola Lookman joining Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon up front.

Lookman’s selection is notable because he has not played for his club, Atalanta, this season and has been sidelined.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has recovered from an injury to start, while the midfield trio of Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, and Ndidi will control the center of the pitch.

The Super Eagles are currently in fourth place in Group A with seven points from six matches. Winning against Rwanda is crucial to stay in the race for World Cup qualification.

The match will kick off at 5pm at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Super Eagles Predicted Starting XI:
Stanley Nwabali; Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Benjamin Fredrick, Bruno Onyemaechi; Wilfred Ndidi (C), Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka; Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen