As the group stage (the initial phase of the tournament where teams compete in four pools) of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations draws to a close, Nigeria’s Super Eagles are set to face Uganda’s Cranes this Tuesday, December 30, at the Fez Stadium in Morocco. Although qualification for the round of 16 (the first knockout phase following the group stages) is already secured after convincing victories over Tanzania and Tunisia, head coach Eric Chelle has surprised observers by naming star striker Victor Osimhen in the starting lineup.
A Starting Lineup Between Rotation and Continuity
For this final Group C encounter, Eric Chelle has opted for a blend of experience and fresh talent. The headline news is the presence of Victor Osimhen at kick-off. The Galatasaray forward, despite being at risk of a suspension (a ban from playing the next match due to accumulated yellow cards), will lead the Nigerian attack. He will be partnered by Paul Onuachu, who replaces Akor Adams in an ambitious offensive system.
In defense, a historic debut is noted: Ryan Alebiosu, the Blackburn Rovers right-back, earns his first cap with the national team. The rest of the backline consists of Igoh Ogbu, Calvin Bassey, and Bruno Onyemaechi. In midfield, Samuel Chukwueze returns to the starting eleven after being a substitute in the previous match, bringing his speed and dribbling ability to the wings.
Eric Chelle’s Tactical Stakes at the Fez Stadium
Head coach Eric Chelle has clearly indicated in recent press conferences that he prioritizes offensive efficiency over defensive caution. Nigeria currently boasts the best attacking statistics in the tournament, with an average ball possession of 61%. For this duel against Uganda, the goal is to maintain this momentum while managing the fitness of key players.
The shift to a “diamond” formation (a midfield setup shaped like a rhombus to densify the central area) allows full-backs like Alebiosu to push high up the pitch, creating constant numerical superiority. However, this tactical choice requires great discipline in defensive transitions (the moment when the team switches from attack to defense after losing the ball) to avoid Ugandan counter-attacks, as the Cranes are fighting for survival in the competition.
The Threat of Suspension: A Risky Gamble?
Nigeria enters this match with several key players “on a tightrope.” Besides Victor Osimhen, essential players such as Ademola Lookman, Semi Ajayi, and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali risk missing the first knockout game if they receive a yellow card today.
While Lookman and Nwabali have been kept on the bench making way for Francis Uzoho in goal starting Osimhen remains a bold decision. The “African Footballer of the Year” is the engine of this team, and his absence in the next round would be a significant blow to Nigeria’s title ambitions. Nevertheless, Eric Chelle seems intent on securing the top spot in the group with style, refusing any minimalist calculations.
