Super Eagles Coach Hints At Surprise Selections, Troost-Ekong Backs Lookman Ahead Of Rwanda Clash

Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has dropped a strong hint that Felix Agu and Benjamin Fredrick could make his squad list when Nigeria face Rwanda in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at 5 p.m. later today, September 6.

Speaking during a pre-match press conference in Oyo on Friday, the Malian tactician said both players, who impressed on their debuts against Jamaica in May’s Unity Cup, have shown enough quality to deserve a place in the team.

“I have a plan in my head, I need to think about this game. Every player in this team can play at every moment, during the game, before the game, after the game,” Chelle told reporters.

“They deserve to be here, they deserve to play this game and, like the captain said, this is an honour for them. We need to think about our starters for tomorrow and this is why we spoke together with the players.”

While Agu faces stiff competition at fullback from Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Bruno Onyemaechi, Fredrick’s chances are also tight with captain William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey and Chigozie Awaziem all in the central defence mix.

Meanwhile, Super Eagles skipper Troost-Ekong has offered insight into the mood of forward Ademola Lookman, who was denied a high-profile transfer to Inter Milan during the summer window. Despite the setback, the Atalanta star has been upbeat in camp, according to Ekong.

“The summer transfer window is always particular when you have a team full of talented players like we always do in Nigeria,” the captain explained.

“I think all of us have really followed and supported him. The coach said he’s the best player in Africa. With what I have seen these days, he’s even more motivated.”

Nigeria, whose hopes of reaching the next World Cup hang in the balance, will be banking on Lookman’s form and mentality to inspire the side in Oyo on Saturday. A victory against Rwanda could revive their qualification chances before Tuesday’s showdown with South Africa.

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