Eric Chelle Recalls Big Hitters for Super Eagles’
The quest for continental glory has intensified as Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle unveiled a high-stakes starting lineup for Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 Round of 16 encounter against Mozambique. In a move that emphasizes tactical discipline over recent individual heroics, Chelle has reverted to his “trusted” core, making eight significant changes from the side that defeated Uganda.
The most talking point of the announcement is the return to the bench of Raphael Onyedika—the man of the match against Uganda—and winger Samuel Chukwueze. By opting for a familiar tactical structure, the Franco-Malian tactician is signaling that the knockout stages are no time for experimentation, relying instead on the established chemistry of his senior stars to secure a quarter-final berth.
The Return of the Heavyweights
After rotating the squad heavily for the final group game, Chelle has reinstated the pillars of the Nigerian team. The return of Stanley Nwabali in goal provides a sense of security at the back, while the defensive quartet has been restored to its most cohesive form.
- Defensive Stability: Bright Osayi-Samuel returns to the right-back position, replacing the injured Ryan Alebiosu, while Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey resume their partnership at the heart of the defense.
- Midfield Generalship: The influential Wilfred Ndidi returns to captain the side from the base of the midfield, joined by the industrious Frank Onyeka and creative spark Alex Iwobi.
- Attacking Firepower: Upfront, the lethal duo of Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen are reunited, with the physical presence of Akor Adams completing a front three designed to overwhelm the Mambas’ backline.
Why Onyedika and Chukwueze Were Benched
The decision to bench Raphael Onyedika is particularly intriguing given his brace against Uganda. However, Chelle’s strategy for the Round of 16 focuses on the “Midfield Diamond” and defensive coverage that Frank Onyeka provides. While Onyedika offers goal-scoring flair from deep, Onyeka’s ability to track back and cover the spaces left by attacking full-backs is deemed more critical for knockout football.
Similarly, Samuel Chukwueze, who provided two assists in the previous outing, remains a “super-sub” option, allowing Ademola Lookman—the only Nigerian named in the group stage Best XI—to maintain his momentum on the flank.
| Position | Starter vs Mozambique | Replaced (from Uganda Match) |
|---|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Stanley Nwabali | Francis Uzoho |
| Right-Back | Bright Osayi-Samuel | Ryan Alebiosu (Injury) |
| Centre-Back | Semi Ajayi | Igoh Ogbu |
| Midfield (DM) | Wilfred Ndidi (C) | Raphael Onyedika |
| Midfield (AM) | Alex Iwobi | Fisayo Dele-Bashiru |
| Attack (LW) | Ademola Lookman | Samuel Chukwueze |
Strategic Outlook: The Road to the Quarter-Finals
By choosing a lineup similar to the one that defeated Tunisia earlier in the tournament, Chelle is prioritizing a “winning formula.” The 4-3-3 / 4-3-1-2 hybrid system allows Alex Iwobi the freedom to transition play quickly to Victor Osimhen, who has been vocal about his desire to “damage” any opponent in the knockout phase. With Akor Adams proving to be a perfect foil for Osimhen’s explosive runs, Mozambique faces a daunting task in trying to contain a Nigerian attack that has already accounted for eight goals in the tournament.
Conclusion: A Calculated Gamble on Familiarity
Eric Chelle’s selection for the Mozambique clash is a testament to the depth of the Super Eagles’ squad, but it is also a clear statement of intent. By benching players in top form like Onyedika, he is betting on the long-term cohesion and big-match experience of his veteran leaders. As the match kicks off in Fes, Morocco, the pressure is on the “Big Hitters” to justify their recall and propel Nigeria into a highly anticipated quarter-final against either DR Congo or Algeria. For the fans, the message is clear: the Super Eagles are back to full strength and ready for war.
Summary:
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has recalled his senior stars for the AFCON 2025 Round of 16 against Mozambique, benching stars Raphael Onyedika and Samuel Chukwueze in favor of a battle-tested starting XI led by Victor Osimhen.
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