Nigeria's caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen has pulled a fast one on curious journalists who quizzed him during the pre-match press conference on his starting lineup for Wednesday evening's Africa Cup of Nations tie against Guinea-Bissau.

The 1994 Africa Cup of Nations winner has made as as many as eight changes to the side that beat Egypt and Sudan, and not one or two as he had suggested during yesterday's presser.

For the first time in the tournament, three former Arsenal players in Semi Ajayi, Alex Iwobi and Kelechi Nwakali start a game together, and that decision by Eguavoen sees center back Kenneth Omeruo and winger Moses Simon drop to the bench while Joe Aribo misses out entirely.

Eguavoen has gone for a conventional back four with Jamilu Collins, William Troost-Ekong and fans' favourite Tyronne Ebuehi taking up the other defensive roles.

Joining Nwakali in the middle of the park are Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho, who is expected to play a more advanced role in midfield.

Almeria striker Umar Sadiq will lead the attack and he is supported by Chidera Ejuke and Alex Iwobi.