Chelle Drops Two Super Eagles Regulars As Frederick And Bewene Get Surprise Starting Roles Against

According to a report by All Nigeria Soccer on Friday, November 13, 2026, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has unveiled an interesting starting lineup for Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying encounter against Tanzania, with Benjamin Frederick and Abdullahi Bewene among the players selected to start.

The announcement has attracted attention because Chelle has decided to hand both young defenders starting opportunities in a crucial fixture where Nigeria desperately need maximum points.

Stanley Nwabali retains his position as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, while Ola Aina, Benjamin Frederick, Calvin Bassey and Abdullahi Bewene have been selected to form the defensive department.

In midfield, captain Wilfred Ndidi will be joined by Alhassan Yusuf, Alex Iwobi and Tochukwu Nnadi. Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams complete the attacking options in the starting eleven.

One of the biggest surprises is the decision to leave experienced defender Semi Ajayi and Bruno Onyemaechi on the bench. Their absence from the starting lineup provides an opportunity for Frederick and Bewene to prove themselves.

Stanley Nwabali; Ola Aina, Benjamin Frederick, Calvin Bassey, Abdullahi Bewene; Wilfred Ndidi (C), Alhassan Yusuf, Alex Iwobi, Tochukwu Nnadi; Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams.

Chelle will be hoping his selection produces the desired result as the Super Eagles look to recover from their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in the previous qualifying fixture.

Nigeria cannot afford another setback if they want to improve their chances of reaching the 2027 AFCON tournament. The encounter against Tanzania in Uyo therefore represents an important opportunity for the three-time African champions to get their qualifying campaign back on track.

All eyes will now be on Frederick and Bewene to see how they perform after receiving Chelle’s trust for this important encounter.

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