Nigeria vs E’Guinea: Uzoho benched as Osimhen leads Eagles attack in AFCON opener

January 14, 2024 11:42 am

Victor Osimhen and William Troost-Ekong last featured for the Super Eagles at the AFCON in Cote d'Ivoire in February

Jose Peseiro has ditched his preferred 4-4-2 system for the attacking 4-2-3-1 pattern as the Super Eagles begin their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) adventure in a few hours.

The Portuguese tactician has named his starting XI that will face Equatorial Guinea at the Stade Olympique Alassane.

Three players will be making their continental debut for the Super Eagles in the cracker.

Stanley Nwabali, Chippa United shot-stopper, was favoured over Francis Uzoho between the sticks.

PAOK central defender William Troost-Ekong will captain the team with Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi and Ola Aina joining him in defence.

Alhassan Yusuf and Frank Onyeka will be deployed to the midfield while Alex Iwobi advances as the playmaker.

Reigning African player of the year Victor Osimhen has been licensed to play as the lone striker. He will be flanked by the red-hot duo of Moses Simon and Ademola Lookman.

The match will kick off at 3pm in Abidjan.