GOAL considers the likely line-up to be utilised from the off by Jose Peseiro against the South American side in New Jersey
Francis Uzoho (Goalkeeper)
The Cyprus based goalkeeper has been in goal in Nigeria’s last three matches. He made crucial saves in the 2-1 defeat to Mexico, and will surely be starting against the South Americans.
William Troost-Ekong (Centre-back)
The Watford man put an appreciable performance against Mexico which was overshadowed by the own goal.
Regardless, he will surely get the nod to start in the friendly as captain due to the absence of Turkey based Ahmed Musa.
Semi Ajayi (Centre-back)
The West Bromwich Albion centre-back is expected to start in the second friendly against the Ecuadorians.
With several absences at the back, the decision is probably a straightforward one for Nigeria’s Jose Peseiro.
Chidozie Awaziem (Right-back)
The Alanyaspor star is one of the high-profile players in the Super Eagles squad. He was in fine form against Mexico and will be keen to help his team return to winning ways.
Calvin Bassey (Left-back)
Bassey has been the primary choice on the left since his debut against Ghana in a 2022 Fifa World Cup play-off.
The absence of Zaidu Sanusi and Jamilu Collins means the Rangers man faces little competition for a starting berth.
Joe Aribo (Central midfield)
Aribo is undoubtedly one of the first names on the team sheet and the Rangers midfielder definitely starts barring any late setback.
Innocent Bonke (Central midfield)
While Innocent Bonke may have been forced off injured against Mexico, he is expected to be back to the squad if fit as he offers greater balance in the middle.
Unless Peseiro chooses to experiment, it’s likely to be an Aribo-Bonke pairing in the middle of the park.
Alex Iwobi (Right winger)
Despite a sluggish performance against Mexico, the Everton attacking midfielder is expected to play on the right flank.
Iwobi is likely to drift infield to allow Awaziem room for the overlap, thus fulfilling a role that resembles that of a wide playmaker.
Moses Simon (Left winger)
The attacker gave the Mexicans restless moments, and he will be picked by Peseiro to start against the 2022 Fifa World Cup campaigners.
Terem Moffi (Centre-forward)
Emmanuel Dennis ought to feature in normal circumstances, but the late arrival of the Watford forward means it could be another international appearance for the Lorient frontman against Gustavo Alfaro’s men.
Cyriel Dessers (Centre-forward)
Feyenoord’s in-form frontman ought to continue in attack after finding the net last time out versus Mexico.
(Goal)
