Nigeria vs S’Africa: Osimhen leads attack as Osayi replaces Sanusi in starting XI

Jose Peseiro has named most of the usual suspects for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final game against South Africa.

There had been doubts regarding the availability of Zaidu Sanusi and Victor Osimhen following the quarter-final win over Angola but only the latter will file out against the Bafana Bafana on Wednesday evening.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is fit enough to retain his place while midfielder Yusuf Alhassan will start on the bench.

Despite pressure to include some big names like Ahmed Musa, Samuel Chukwueze, Terem Moffi and Kelechi Iheanacho in the starting XI, the Portuguese coach has put his faith in tested hands.

Bright Osayi Samuel will be deployed to the right wing-back while Ola Aina takes charge of the other side.

William Troost Ekong will marshall the defence alongside Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey while Osimhen, who just recovered from an abdominal strain, will lead an attack comprising Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon.

England-based Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi will retain their spots in the middle of the park.

The game is expected to kick off at 6pm Nigerian time.

Super Eagles Starting XI vs South Africa

Stanley Nwabali
Bright Osayi Samuel
Ola Aina
Calvin Bassey
William Troost Ekong (C)
Semi Ajayi
Frank Onyeka
Alex Iwobi
Victor Osimhen
Moses Simon
Ademola Lookman