Super Eagles’ next match vs Guinea-Bissau: Pick Eric Chelle’s XI for 2027 AFCON Q clash

The Super Eagles return to competitive action on Tuesday as they travel to face Guinea-Bissau in their second Group L fixture of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Soccernet.ng reports.

After navigating a tense opening clash, head coach Eric Chelle faces crucial selection decisions ahead of the kickoff in Bissau.

Nigeria opened their qualifying campaign on a high in Uyo, staging a spirited 2-1 comeback victory against Madagascar. Debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor announced themselves in style, netting the crucial goals to secure all three points.

However, Guinea-Bissau also started their campaign with intent, earning an impressive 2-0 away victory against Tanzania. With both nations tied on three points at the top of the group, Tuesday’s contest presents an early test for outright control of Group L.

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Tactical Dilemmas in Attack

Chelle must navigate this international window without talisman Victor Osimhen, who remains sidelined due to a muscle injury. Taiwo Awoniyi stepped in as a late replacement and featured off the bench against Madagascar, but the attacking pecking order remains fiercely contested.

Ilenikhena staked a strong claim by scoring Nigeria’s equalizer on his debut, while Usor provided the decisive breakthrough after coming on as a substitute.

With Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Akor Adams, and Tolu Arokodare also in the fold, Chelle must decide whether to reward form and momentum or lean on tournament experience in hostile territory.

Midfield and Defensive Combinations

The midfield engine room presents another puzzle. Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi anchored the starting setup against Madagascar, but Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka offer added steel and defensive balance — attributes that could prove vital for an away fixture in Bissau.

In defence, Ola Aina, Bruno Onyemaechi, Semi Ajayi, and Calvin Bassey formed the back four in the opener. However, Chelle has versatile cover on the bench with Bright Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin Fredricks, and Emmanuel Fernandez ready if rotation is required.

Between the posts, Stanley Nwabali held down the number one shirt in Uyo, but Maduka Okoye and Arthur Okonkwo remain viable alternatives if the coaching staff opts for a tactical tweak.

 With three points up for grabs, how should Eric Chelle set up his team to ensure Nigeria leaves Bissau with another victory?