Chelle Shakes Up Eagles XI as Uzoho and Alebiosu Start Against Uganda

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has sent a clear message of tactical evolution by handing out a debut and recalling familiar faces for Nigeria’s high-stakes Group C encounter against the Cranes of Uganda. In a move that has sparked intense debate among the Nigerian faithful, the Malian-born tactician has opted for a bold, attack-heavy formation that suggests the Super Eagles are looking to overwhelm their East African opponents from the opening whistle.

The most significant talking point of the team sheet is the return of Francis Uzoho. The Omonia Nicosia shot-stopper finds himself back in the starting frame, stepping in for Stanley Nwabali. Uzoho, who has faced his fair share of scrutiny in recent years, now has a golden opportunity to reclaim his spot and prove his reliability on the continental stage. His experience in high-pressure environments will be vital as Nigeria seeks to maintain defensive discipline against a physical Ugandan side.

Perhaps the biggest surprise of the afternoon is the inclusion of Ryan Alebiosu. The marauding defender is set to make his international debut at right-back, a selection that signals Chelle’s intent to inject fresh energy and pace into the flanks. Alebiosu’s rise to the starting eleven comes at a pivotal moment, and his ability to balance defensive duties with overlapping runs will be a key metric to watch as the game progresses.

Complementing Alebiosu in the defensive line are the stalwarts Calvin Bassey and Igoh Ogbu, who will form the central defensive partnership. Both players bring a blend of physicality and composure on the ball, which will be essential for building play from the back. Completing the defensive quartet is Bruno Onyemaechi at left-back, whose consistent performances in recent outings have made him a reliable fixture in the squad’s defensive setup.

In the middle of the park, Chelle has opted for a duo that combines grit with creative spark. Raphael Onyedika will act as the midfield anchor, tasked with breaking up play and shielding the back four. Alongside him, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has been handed the keys to the engine room. Dele-Bashiru’s vision and ability to drive forward with the ball will be crucial in transitioning the Super Eagles from defense to attack, especially against a Ugandan midfield known for its tenacity.

The tactical blueprint becomes even more aggressive when looking at the forward line. Chelle has opted for what appears to be a four-man attacking front, a daring move that emphasizes the depth of Nigeria’s offensive talent. Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon will provide the width, using their trickery and pace to stretch the Ugandan defense. Their primary objective will be to provide quality service into the box for the two powerhouse strikers leading the charge.

Paul Onuachu earns a starting nod, bringing a significant aerial threat and a physical presence that could unsettle the Ugandan center-backs. Onuachu’s ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play will be a vital outlet for the Super Eagles. Leading the line alongside him is none other than Victor Osimhen. The reigning African Footballer of the Year remains the focal point of the Nigerian attack, and his movement and clinical finishing will be the greatest threat to Uganda’s hopes of an upset.

This lineup suggests a 4-2-4 or a very fluid 4-4-2, showcasing Chelle’s willingness to deviate from traditional structures in favor of sheer firepower. By starting both Onuachu and Osimhen, the Super Eagles are signaling their intent to play a direct and high-pressure game. The inclusion of Alebiosu and the return of Uzoho add layers of intrigue to a match that carries significant weight in the race for AFCON 2025 qualification.

Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see how this experimental side gels on the pitch. The balance between the attacking riches and the defensive stability provided by Onyedika and the back four will likely determine the outcome. As the Super Eagles prepare to take the field, the pressure is on Chelle to prove that this bold selection is the right formula to overcome the disciplined Cranes of Uganda.

With the atmosphere building and the stakes at an all-time high, the Super Eagles are poised to make a statement. Whether this lineup can deliver the fluidity and clinical edge required remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Eric Chelle is not afraid to take risks in his pursuit of continental glory.