Finidi's first Nigeria starting XI: Nwabali, Iheanacho, Dessers start; Ndidi captain;Tanimu debuts; Bassey bench

Ajax Amsterdam legend Finidi George has announced his first starting lineup as caretaker boss of Nigeria's national team ahead of Friday's friendly against Ghana's Black Stars at Stade de Marrakech, allnigeriasoccer.com reports.

Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali takes his total number of caps to double digits with his inclusion in the starting lineup.

The former Enyimba man previously played in seven consecutive games at the AFCON and appeared in two friendlies versus Mexico and Guinea. 

Nwabali is protected by a back five consisting of Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Chidozie Awaziem, Bruno Onyemaechi and Benjamin Tanimu, who is making his senior debut for the three-time African champions. 

The strong-looking midfield picks itself with captain Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi forming a partnership in the middle of the park, a decision that sees Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Alhassan Yusuf and Rapahel Onyedika start on the bench.

With Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, Taiwo Awoniyi, Terem Moffi and Samuel Chukwueze not available for selection, Finidi had an interesting decision to make regarding his forward players.

The 1994 Africa Cup of Nations winner has gone for Cyriel Dessers to lead the line and the 16-goal Rangers striker is supported by Kelechi Iheanacho.

Kickoff at Stade de Marrakech is 1700 hours Nigerian time and the referee is Moroccan Jayed Jalal, who will be assisted by compatriots Akarhad Mostafa (assistant I), Brinsi Zakaria (assistant II) and El Fariq Hamza (fourth official).

Super Eagles starting lineup: Nwabali, Osayi-Samuel, Ajayi, Awaziem, Tanimu, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Onyeka, Iwobi; Iheanacho, Dessers

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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