Super Eagles gaffer Eric Chelle is going all out for goals from the first whistle in Rwanda and could therefore unleash two strikers in Victor Osimhen and Ademola lookman as well as two wingers – Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon.
The team’s second training in Rwanda suggested that the new Super Eagles coach is treating this game as a cup final.
“He’s not leaving anything to chance and so will play two strikers with Osimhen on top and Ademola Lookman as a second striker, like he often plays for his club Atalanta, while Moses Simon is on the left wing and Chukwueze on the right,” a source close to the team in Kigali told SCORENigeria
Eric Chelle has been a long-time fan of the Super Eagles from the 90s, when the team thrived on all-out attack with Rashidi Yekini top striker, Daniel Amokachi or Samson Siasia the second striker, while the wingers were Finidi George and .Emmanuel Amuneke.
When the Super Eagles tackled the Amavubi in Kigali in September 2024, the home team were mainly on the back foot and their South Africa-based goalkeeper Ntwari Fiacre was Man of the Match as he pulled several big saves to deny Nigeria a first-ever victory in Rwanda.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong says the team are geared up for battle against the Amavubi of Rwanda.
The 31-year-old said the players are in positive mood ahead of the game.
“Everything has been good, first training session, all the boys in camp, we’re fired up. Of course we know we have a big job ahead, it comes with the pressure but I keep saying to everyone that this pressure is a privilege so all the boys are feeling that,” he told the Super Eagles media.
The centre-back acknowledged that Rwanda will be a tough opponent, but expressed confidence in the team’s ability.
“Of course we have to respect them for their position on the table and I think we understand what they want to do.
” They have a new coach as well so it’s going to be a very loaded match but we’re just trying to break it down and focus on the things we can control,” he added.