Which alterations could the Super Eagles boss make for Tuesday’s make or break World Cup qualifier?
GettyNigeria vs Ghana
Friday’s goalless encounter between these West African giants has set up a hugely-awaited decider in Abuja on Tuesday, with observers closer to finding out which nation will be in Qatar later this year.
Nigeria boss Augustine Eguavoen may have seemed somewhat pleased with the 0-0 result, even though he still hinted a win could have been claimed at the Baba Yara Stadium.
Having assessed Friday’s performance, GOAL suggests tweaks the trainer could make for the reverse fixture.
AdvertisementBackpagepixFrank Onyeka
While there would be a temptation to play Peter Etebo instead, the Watford midfielder’s lack of match sharpness means Eguavoen should opt for the Brentford man from the start.
Whether the trainer selects Onyeka from the off remains to be seen, yet there is unlikely to be another Innocent Bonke experiment owing to the defensive midfielder’s underwhelming showing and subsequent injury in Kumasi.
GettyMore minutes for Ademola Lookman
Having waited so long before introducing the Leicester City winger on Friday, Lookman has to start in the reverse fixture.
The RB Leipzig loanee not only offers his aggressive ball carrying and dribbling ability, but he backs that up with the all-important end product.
With Samuel Chukwueze a doubt for Tuesday, Lookman should be trusted from the off for his home debut.
Watford.Start Emmanuel Dennis
Kelechi Iheanacho may have fashioned Nigeria’s best chance of the night at the Baba Yara Stadium, but he offered little else for the remainder of the game.
Admittedly, it could be a risk playing Dennis and Victor Osimhen in tandem up front, so Eguavoen may alternatively choose to introduce the Watford man for Moses Simon from the start.