The Super Eagles of Nigeria have officially unveiled their starting lineup for the crucial international friendly against the Pharaohs of Egypt happening today, Tuesday, 16 December 2025, at the Cairo International Stadium.
This match is the final assessment for Head Coach Eric Chelle before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. The squad selection prioritizes a blend of experience and the introduction of new talent.
Nigeria’s Starting XI vs. Egypt (4-4-2 Formation)
| Position | Player Name | Club |
| Goalkeeper | Stanley Nwabali | Chippa United (South Africa) |
| Right-Back | Bright Osayi-Samuel | Fenerbahçe (Turkey) |
| Center-Back | Igoh Ogbu | Slavia Prague (Czech Republic) |
| Center-Back | Chidozie Awaziem | Boavista (Portugal) |
| Left-Back | Zaidu Sanusi | FC Porto (Portugal) |
| Def. Midfield | Frank Onyeka | Brentford (England) |
| Central Midfield | Dele Bashiru | Hatayspor (Turkey) |
| Central Midfield | Nwadike | (Unspecified – Likely a test player) |
| Att. Midfield | Ebenezer Akinsanmiro | Inter Milan (Italy) |
| Striker | Paul Onuachu | Trabzonspor (Turkey) |
| Striker | Chidera Ejuke | Sevilla (Spain) |
Substitutes Bench
The bench offers significant firepower and a chance for the coach to test other players in the final preparations:
Goalkeepers: Francis Uzoho, Amas Obasogie
Defenders: Semi Ajayi, Ryan Alebiosu
Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Tochukwu Nnadi
Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Cyriel Dessers, Akor Adams, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, Muhammed, Lawal
The lineup shows Coach Chelle’s intent to test the defensive chemistry (with Ogbu and Awaziem pairing) and to integrate new faces like young Ebenezer Akinsanmiro and Nwadike into the midfield, while resting key players like Victor Osimhen (not yet in camp) and Alex Iwobi for the AFCON proper.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:00 PM Nigerian time (WAT).
