The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to battle Rwanda and Zimbabwe in two crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers during the March international break. With just two points from two games, the three-time African champions sit in a precarious fifth place in Group C, trailing Benin Republic, Rwanda, South Africa, and Lesotho.

Now under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Eric Chelle, Nigeria must turn the tide if they are to keep their World Cup dreams alive. However, the team faces an uphill task with key absences—Semi Ajayi has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury, while Raphael Onyedika remains a major doubt.

Nwabali Stands Tall in Goal

Despite enduring a turbulent period at Chippa United following personal losses, Stanley Nwabali is still Nigeria’s best option between the posts. His performances at the 2024 AFCON solidified his status as the Super Eagles’ number one, and he will be crucial in ensuring defensive stability.

Defense: A Return to the Back Four

Chelle is expected to abandon the back-three system used by Jose Peseiro and revert to a traditional back four. William Troost-Ekong’s leadership will anchor the defense, with Fulham’s Calvin Bassey in top form as his ideal partner in central defense.

Ola Aina, a consistent performer for Nottingham Forest, is set to take his usual spot at right-back, while Bruno Onyemaechi will patrol the left flank in the absence of Zaidu Sanusi.

Midfield: Ndidi’s Experience & Iwobi’s Spark

The return of Wilfred Ndidi is a massive boost, as the Leicester City star remains Nigeria’s most reliable defensive midfielder. He is likely to be paired with New England Revolution’s Alhassan Yusuf, who has steadily grown into his role in the national team.

Further forward, Alex Iwobi has been thriving in the English Premier League under Marco Silva’s guidance. His ability to unlock defenses and score goals makes him a key playmaker for Nigeria’s attack.

Attack: Osimhen Leads the Line

In the forward line, Moses Simon’s dazzling dribbling and playmaking ability make him an automatic choice on the right wing. The FC Nantes star has been in sensational form, ranking among Europe’s best dribblers alongside the likes of Lamine Yamal, Jamal Musiala, and Vinicius Junior.

On the left, Ademola Lookman has proven to be indispensable. His return to Atalanta’s lineup sparked a turnaround in their form, and he will be crucial for Nigeria as well.

At the heart of the attack, Victor Osimhen remains the Super Eagles’ talisman. The Napoli loanee, currently thriving at Galatasaray, has netted 22 goals and provided five assists this season. His predatory instincts in front of goal will be key in breaking down Rwanda and Zimbabwe’s defenses.

Nigeria’s Predicted XI vs. Rwanda & Zimbabwe

Formation: 4-2-1-3
Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali
Defenders: Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi
Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Alhassan Yusuf, Alex Iwobi
Forwards: Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen

With the first game against Rwanda set for March 19 and the home fixture against Zimbabwe on March 22, the Super Eagles must deliver if they want to keep their World Cup hopes alive. The road to redemption starts now.