Captain William Troost-Ekong has returned to Nigeria’s starting lineup for today’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa in Bloemfontein.
The experienced centre-back was left out of the squad that edged Rwanda 1-0 in Uyo last weekend but has now been recalled by Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle for what is considered a must-win encounter to keep Nigeria’s qualification hopes alive.
Despite Troost-Ekong’s return, 20-year-old defender Benjamin Fredrick, who started against Rwanda, has retained his place in the team, a show of confidence from the coaching crew in the youngster’s abilities.
Midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Alex Iwobi have also been named in the starting eleven.
Dele-Bashiru, who came on as a substitute in the last game, earns his first start of the qualifiers alongside Wilfred Ndidi in midfield.
In attack, Cyriel Dessers leads the line and will be supported by Moses Simon of Paris FC and Ademola Lookman of Atalanta.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali keeps his place between the sticks, while Calvin Bassey and Ola Aina complete the defensive quartet.
Coach Chelle made three changes to the squad that faced Rwanda, bringing in Troost-Ekong, Dele-Bashiru and Dessers as Nigeria pushes for three points in one of the most anticipated fixtures of the qualifying campaign.
