Nigeria vs South Africa: Predicted starting XI, formation

The Super Eagles of Nigeria face a tall order as they take on Bafana Bafana of South Africa in a crucial World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

Having drawn their first two qualifying matches, the Super Eagles cannot afford anything less than a win in this encounter.

Finidi George, who was recently appointed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on a substantive basis to replace José Peseiro, will manage his first competitive game for the Super Eagles.

With key players such as Victor Osimhen, William Troost-Ekong, Moses Simon and Kenneth Omeruo missing from the squad due to fitness concerns, MyNigeriaSports looks at how Finidi George will set up his team against Bafana Bafana.

Goalkeeper

Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali will undoubtedly get the nod between the posts following his remarkable campaign at the African Cup of Nations.

The 27-year-old also had a good season in the PSL, recording 12 clean sheets for Chippa United.

Defenders

West Bromwich Albion's defender Semi Ajayi and Chidozie Awaziem are likely to start in the center-back positions for Nigeria.

The duo has had a decent season for their clubs and will surely start for the Super Eagles.

Bright Osayi-Samuel and Calvin Bassey will most likely be deployed as full-backs to complete the defensive back four.

Midfielders

Finidi George will most likely opt for a midfield trio of Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi.

Ndidi had a remarkable campaign with Leicester City, guiding the Foxes to win the EFL Championship and securing their return to the English topflight.

Raphael Onyeka also had a brilliant campaign with Club Brugge, helping them win the Belgian Pro League. Iwobi, for his part, had a good season with Fulham in the Premier League.

Forwards

Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Boniface will start in attack for the Super Eagles.

With Moses Simon out due to injury, Chukwueze is likely to start on the right flank.

Ademola Lookman, who is undoubtedly the in-form player in the team, will operate from the left side of the attack, with Victor Boniface playing as the central striker in the absence of Victor Osimhen.

Possible line up: Nwabali, Ajayi, Awaziem, Osayi-Samuel, Bassey, Ndidi, Iwobi, Onyedika, Chukwueze, Lookman and Boniface.

Formation: 4-3-3