2026 World Cup Qualifier: How Nigeria Could Line Up Against South Africa

2026 World Cup Qualifier: How Nigeria Could Line Up Against South Africa  

By Niyi Busari 

As Nigeria prepare for a high-stakes FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying clash against South Africa on Tuesday in Bloemfontein, head coach Éric Chelle faces critical selection decisions that could shape the Super Eagles’ campaign, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Group C encounter is a must-win for Nigeria, who currently trail leaders South Africa by six points. With star striker Victor Osimhen ruled out through injury, Chelle must find a new formula in attack while maintaining tactical balance.

Probable Super Eagles Line-Up vs South Africa

Goalkeeper:

Stanley Nwabali is expected to retain his place between the posts after a composed display in the 1-0 win over Rwanda. He needs to be more focused in South Africa not to attract receiving marching orders.

Defence:

The backline could feature Bruno Onyemaechi, Calvin Bassey, Benjamin Friedrick, and Ola Aina, offering a blend of experience, pace, and physicality.

Midfield:

Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka are likely to anchor the midfield, tasked with breaking up play and shielding the defense.

Alex Iwobi, in a more advanced role, will aim to link midfield to attack and dictate tempo.

On the flanks, Moses Simon and Ademola Lookman may be deployed to stretch South Africa's defense and create openings.

Attack:

Eric Chelle could start with just a lone striker with Lookman and Simon joining attack and offering movement and creativity in the final third.

Tolu Arokodare, who scored the winner against Rwanda, is tipped to lead the line, providing height, physical presence, and aerial threat.

Tactical Outlook

Chelle is expected to opt for a pragmatic but attacking-minded approach, aware that anything less than three points would deal a serious blow to Nigeria’s qualification hopes.

Likely Starting XI 

Nwabali 

Ola Aina 

Bruno Onyemeachi 

Calvin Bassey 

Benjamin Friedrick 

Wifred Ndidi 

Frank Oyeka 

Alex Iwobi 

Moses Simon 

Ademola Lookman 

Tolu Arokodare 

The key will be in maintaining defensive discipline while exploiting width and set-piece opportunities. South Africa remain unbeaten at home in the group, and Nigeria must match their intensity and organisation to emerge with a vital result.

Victory on Tuesday could catapult the Super Eagles back into contention and inject fresh momentum into their qualification campaign.