AFCON 2025: Boniface to lead Super Eagles; Nwabali and Lookman out of Rwanda match

The Super Eagles have announced their starting XI for Monday’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Rwanda, with notable absentees in the lineup.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, initially called up for the match, is unavailable following the tragic loss of his father. Similarly, star forward Victor Osimhen will not feature in the encounter, as the team has opted for an alternative attacking setup.

According to a post by Soar Super Eagles via X, the starting XI includes Maduka Okoye in goal, supported by a defence comprising Bright Osayi-Samuel, Jordan Osho, William Troost-Ekong (captain), and Bruno Onyemaechi.

The midfield trio features Frank Onyeka, Ismaheel Yusuf, and Tom Dele-Bashiru, providing both defensive stability and creative playmaking.

In attack, Simon Moses, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Victor Boniface will lead the line, with Boniface seeking his first international goal for Nigeria.

The Super Eagles are set to face Rwanda’s Amavubi at 5 pm (Nigerian time) in the final Group D match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Despite having already secured their spot in Morocco 2025 and clinched the top position in the group, Head Coach Augustine Eguavoen has assured fans that the team will aim for victory, even in the absence of Nwabali, defender Olaoluwa Aina, and winger Ademola Lookman.