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Nigeria’s Super Eagles, under the guidance of coach Eric Chelle, have unveiled a significantly altered lineup for their pivotal 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Group match against Tunisia. The Franco-Malian tactician has implemented key changes in both midfield and defence, signaling a decisive shift towards greater tactical solidity for the crucial encounter. This strategic reshuffle aims to build upon Nigeria’s opening 2-1 victory over Tanzania and propel the team closer to securing a coveted spot in the knockout stages of the prestigious continental tournament.
Central to Chelle’s adjustments is the introduction of Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka, who steps into the starting eleven in place of winger Samuel Chukwueze. This move underscores a clear intention to fortify the Super Eagles’ central engine room, providing enhanced defensive cover and robust ball retention capabilities. Concurrently, the defensive line sees Bruno Onyemaechi taking over the left-back position from Zaidu Sanusi, a decision likely prompted by a desire for improved performance and stability on the flank after the previous outing.
The revamped midfield triumvirate now features captain Wilfred Ndidi, alongside the newly introduced Onyeka and the influential Alex Iwobi. This configuration is engineered to create a formidable shield in front of the defence, tasked with disrupting Tunisian attacks and controlling the tempo of the game. Onyeka’s inclusion is expected to provide the necessary steel and work rate, allowing Ndidi and Iwobi to orchestrate play and transition the ball effectively from defence to attack, fostering a more balanced and resilient unit.
At the back, the changes reflect a keen focus on tightening the defensive structure. Bruno Onyemaechi’s promotion to left-back is a direct response to the need for a more assured presence in that role. He will join the consistent central defensive pairing of Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi, both of whom retain their positions, alongside Bright Osayi-Samuel, who continues at right-back. Stanley Nwabali maintains his place as the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper, anchoring a backline designed for improved cohesion and resistance against Tunisia’s offensive threats.
Despite the emphasis on defensive reinforcement, coach Chelle has maintained faith in his primary attacking options. The formidable duo of Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams will lead the line, bringing their potent goal-scoring abilities and physical presence to challenge the Tunisian defence. Supporting them, Ademola Lookman is poised to operate in a free role behind the strikers, expected to drift across the frontline and exploit any spaces that emerge, providing creative impetus and linking play between midfield and attack.
Saturday’s fixture, scheduled for 9 pm Nigerian time, represents a significant litmus test for the Super Eagles’ aspirations in the 2025 AFCON. Following their hard-fought victory against Tanzania, securing another three points against a strong Tunisian side would not only solidify their position at the top of Group D but also guarantee their progression to the highly anticipated round of 16. The stakes are exceptionally high, with qualification within reach, making this encounter a defining moment for Nigeria’s tournament campaign.
The clash carries an added layer of significance due to the historical rivalry between Nigeria and Tunisia. The North African giants famously eliminated the Super Eagles from the 2021 AFCON tournament, a memory that undoubtedly lingers for players and fans alike. This upcoming match therefore presents an opportunity for Nigeria to demonstrate its evolution and tactical prowess, seeking not just a victory but also a measure of redemption against a familiar and formidable adversary known for its tactical discipline and counter-attacking threat.
Coach Chelle’s tactical adjustments signal a clear understanding of the challenges posed by Tunisia’s disciplined approach. The decision to prioritize a compact midfield and a robust defence suggests a strategy to control the central areas, limit space, and absorb pressure, while still leveraging the potent attacking talents at his disposal. This proactive approach aims to nullify Tunisia’s strengths and impose Nigeria’s game plan from the outset, reflecting the coach’s intent to navigate a potentially tricky fixture with pragmatism.
The team’s preparation has focused on ensuring every player understands their role within this new framework, with training sessions likely emphasizing defensive drills, midfield interplay, and quick transitions. The psychological aspect of facing a team that previously knocked them out also plays a crucial role, with Chelle expected to instill confidence and focus within the squad. The Super Eagles are under pressure to deliver a performance that justifies these strategic changes and secures an early qualification.
Looking beyond this immediate challenge, the Super Eagles will conclude their group stage campaign on December 30 against Uganda. However, all immediate attention remains fixed on the Tunisian encounter, as a positive result here would alleviate considerable pressure and allow the team to approach the final group match with greater confidence and flexibility. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the narrative around Nigeria’s prospects in the tournament and Chelle’s tactical acumen.
