Nigeria starting XI vs Ghana: Chelsea product, Rangers duo, Iheanacho, Osimhen start

Nigeria's caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen has announced his starting lineup for the 2022 World Cup playoff against Ghana at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, starting from 2030 hours.

The former K.V. Kortrijk fullback has started with Omonia Nicosia's Francis Uzoho in goal - a decision that sees him leave both Daniel Akpeyi and late invitee John Noble on the bench.

The big team news is that Leon Balogun has stepped into the starting lineup to replace former Chelsea defender Kenneth Omeruo who has been inactive at his Spanish club Leganes for more than one month, and the Glasgow Rangers star is partnered in central defence by William Troost-Ekong.

Another player with a Chelsea past in Ola Aina starts at right-back with Porto's Zaidu Sanusi preferred to Calvin Bassey for the left-back role.

The absence of Wilfred Nididi through injury has opened the door for Innocent Bonke to make his second competitive start for the Super Eagles and joining him in midfield are Rangers star Joe Aribo and Leicester City's Kelechi Iheanacho, who plays in an advanced role.

Up front Victor Osimhen is flanked by Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon.