Nigeria will begin their chase for a fourth African Cup of Nation title on Saturday with group rivals Burundi first in line to try and thwart their ambitions and while manager Gernot Rohr has had to contend with the recent sickness plague and fitness issues in camp, it is important to note the best ones at his disposal to send out for that vital assignment.
It is very crucial the Super Eagles find a victory against the Swallows, a result which will be morale-boosting and psyche them up to approach the next one with same self-belief.
But which players are looking the likeliest to be handed starting berths in the encounter?
The German will most likely go with Daniel Akpeyi in goal, with the Kaizer Chiefs goaltender having seemingly usurped his colleagues to nailing down the position.
He featured in the two preparatory games and could be relied upon yet again for the tournament opener.
In defence, William Troost-Ekong could be partnered by Leon Balogun, provided he is fit and ready to go by the time the team hold their last training session prior to the game, with impressing Chelsea defender Kenneth Omeruo taking the third defensive position.
Chelsea legend and team skipper Obi Mikel has continued to showcase his fitness and readiness having led the team in their games since returning to the fold and will surely form the backbone of the midfield.
Alongside Leicester City's Wilfred Ndidi, they will be tasked with leading the team's build-up from deep and shielding the defence from opposing attacks while Arsenal's Alex Iwobi could be handed the playmaking role, playing just behind the attackers where he can easily pick out the strikers with his sleek passes.
Samuel Kalu and Jamilu Collins are expected to be deployed as the right and left wing-backs respectively.
The AFCON qualifiers top scorer, Odion Ighalo will be entrusted with the task of leading the lines for the team while working off the supplies and industry of Ahmed Musa.
It is important to note that the team will be best served if they get their set-up right on the day, with the best ones mentally and physically.
Emmanuel Chinaza
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