NGA Vs TAN: How Nigeria Could Line Up Without Victor Osimhen Against Tanzania

According to a report by ESPN on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, Nigeria’s Super Eagles are preparing for their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Tanzania, with head coach Eric Chelle facing an important selection decision following Victor Osimhen’s absence from the squad.

The two African nations will meet at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13, with Nigeria desperate to collect all three points after their disappointing defeat against Guinea-Bissau.

Osimhen’s absence is expected to attract considerable attention because the Galatasaray forward has established himself as one of Nigeria’s most influential attacking players. His goalscoring ability, physical strength and movement inside the penalty area have made him an important figure in the national team.

Nevertheless, the Super Eagles have several other attacking options who could step forward and help the country secure a positive result.

Possible Goalkeeper And Defensive Selection

Stanley Nwabali is expected to compete for the starting goalkeeper position, having established himself as an important member of the national team.

In defence, Chelle could rely on experienced players such as Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and Bruno Onyemaechi to provide stability against Tanzania.

Nigeria will need a disciplined defensive performance because conceding unnecessary goals could make their qualification situation even more difficult.

Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi could be important figures in the middle of the pitch.

Ndidi’s defensive qualities and ability to recover possession could help Nigeria maintain control, while Iwobi’s creativity and passing range could provide the connection between midfield and attack.

The presence of both players could give the Super Eagles the balance required to dominate proceedings against the visitors.

Without Osimhen, Chelle could consider deploying Akor Adams as the central striker, with Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon providing attacking support from the wings.

Adams has the physical qualities to challenge opposing defenders and could use his movement to create opportunities inside Tanzania’s penalty area.

Lookman could operate from the left side, where his dribbling ability, pace and finishing could cause problems for the visitors.

Moses Simon could occupy the opposite flank, offering width and the ability to deliver dangerous crosses.

Tolu Arokodare and Taiwo Awoniyi could also provide alternative attacking options if Chelle decides to change his approach during the encounter.

A possible 4-3-3 formation could see Stanley Nwabali in goal, with Ola Aina, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and Bruno Onyemaechi forming the defensive line.

Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi and another available midfielder could occupy the central positions, while Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams and Moses Simon lead the attack.

However, the final selection will depend on the coach’s tactical assessment, players’ fitness and availability.

Nigeria currently have three points from two matches in Group L, following their opening victory over Madagascar and subsequent defeat against Guinea-Bissau.

The Super Eagles are behind Guinea-Bissau, who have accumulated six points from their opening fixtures.

Tanzania have one point, although their participation in the 2027 AFCON is already guaranteed because they are among the tournament’s co-hosts.

Nigeria cannot afford another setback if they want to secure the remaining qualification ticket in the group.

Friday’s encounter will therefore provide Chelle with an opportunity to demonstrate that the Super Eagles can remain competitive even without their leading striker.

With Lookman, Simon, Adams, Arokodare and Awoniyi available as attacking options, Nigeria will hope to find the goals required to overcome Tanzania and strengthen their position in the qualification campaign.

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