AFCON Qualifier: Eric Chelle Picks 25-year-old Star to Lead Super Eagles Attack Against Tanzania

According to a report by BBC Sport on Monday November 9, 2026, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has reportedly informed Tolu Arokodare that he will lead Nigeria’s attack in their upcoming encounter against Tanzania as the national team prepares for November’s international fixtures.

Chelle will be without his preferred attacking partnership of Victor Osimhen and George Ilenikhena, forcing the manager to consider alternative options. Taiwo Awoniyi, Akor Adams and Arokodare remain available for selection.

Nigeria will be desperate to recover from their disappointing 3-0 defeat against Guinea-Bissau in their previous match. The Super Eagles are scheduled to face Tanzania twice, with the first encounter taking place in Uyo before travelling to Dar es Salaam.

According to reports, Arokodare has been selected to lead the attack alongside Akor Adams in the opening fixture. The decision follows his impressive performances for Ajax, where he has established himself as an important attacking option.

The striker has scored 13 goals in 17 appearances across all competitions, including seven goals in just 11 league matches, demonstrating his excellent goalscoring form ahead of the international assignment.

A source revealed that Chelle has already communicated his decision directly to the forward, making it clear that the opportunity is now his to take.

“Tolu will lead the attack with Akor and he is aware. That’s a discussion he has already had with Chelle,” the source explained.

The source further suggested that Arokodare must deliver an impressive performance against Tanzania to strengthen his chances of retaining his starting position for the return fixture.

Consequently, the Ajax striker has an important opportunity to establish himself in Nigeria’s attacking plans while helping the Super Eagles return to winning ways during the November international break.

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