Boniface benched as Lookman, Osimhen start for Eagles against Rwanda

Eric Chelle, Super Eagles of Nigeria coach, has named Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen to lead the team’s attack in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group C encounter against Rwanda at the Stade Amahoro in Kigali on Friday.

Osimhen and Lookman have scored over 40 goals with their respective clubs this season, and they will look to bring their red-hot form to the national team where Nigeria is currently struggling in her quest to make the 2026 World Cup.

The duo will be supported by dynamic wingers Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze, with Alex Iwobi in central midfield. Wilfred Ndidi is set to reprise his role in defensive midfield.

In defence, captain William Troost-Ekong leads the backline alongside Calvin Bassey, with Bright Osayi-Samuel and Ola Aina at fullback. Stanley Nwabali retains his status as the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper.

Nigeria are currently winless in Group C of the CAF section of the FIFA 2026 World Cup. After three draws and a loss, the Super Eagles are currently placed fifth in the six-nation group on three points.

Starting XI: Stanley Nwabali; Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel; Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon; Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen.