Super Eagles starting lineup: Iwobi, Aina, Ajayi start; competitive debuts for Yusuf, Nwabili; Lookman AFCON debut

Allnigeriasoccer.com can exclusively report that Jose Peseiro has revealed his starting lineup for the Super Eagles' clash with Equatorial Guinea in their first game at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. 

The Portuguese tactician seems to have abandoned his 4-4-2 formation and has opted for a 4-3-3 shape.

Chippa United shot-stopper Stanley Nwabili has been preferred to Francis Uzoho and is set to start in goal in what will be his first competitive appearance for Nigeria.

In defense, Nottingham Forest fullback Ola Aina will start over Bright Osayi-Samuel at right back, Semi Ajayi maintains his place at center-back and will be partnered by William Troost-Ekong who has been restored into the side while Zaidu Sanusi completes the back four.

Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka will start in the defensive midfield position, Arsenal alum Alex Iwobi starts as one of the two central midfielders and will be given a helping hand by Alhassan Yusuf who has been handed his competitive debut.

Moses Simon and Ademola Lookman, who is making his AFCON debut, will occupy both flanks while Victor Osimhen will spearhead the attack.

With Ivory Coast getting the maximum points against Guinea-Bissau in the opening game yesterday, the Super Eagles will have to replicate the same to prevent being under massive pressure ahead of Thursday side between both sides.

Super Eagles starting lineup v Equatorial Guinea: Nwabili; Aina, Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu; Onyeka, Yusuf, Iwobi, Lookman, Simon, Osimhen

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid

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