Eric Chelle secured his first win as Nigeria’s head coach with a crucial 2-0 victory over Rwanda in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Amahoro Stadium on Friday.
A brace from Victor Osimhen ended the Super Eagles’ four-game winless streak, but there are still tactical adjustments needed ahead of their next match against Zimbabwe.
With Chelle seemingly committed to his 4-4-2 diamond formation, Nigeria must refine their approach to make the most of the system.
Here are three key changes the coach should consider against Zimbabwe to build on the momentum.
Replace Chukwueze with a natural midfielder
Samuel Chukwueze struggled in an unfamiliar central role against Rwanda. Deployed as the attacking midfielder, the AC Milan winger failed to influence proceedings except from his game-winning assist, often drifting inside and crowding Nigeria’s attacking lanes.
His lack of positional awareness and quick ball distribution hindered the team’s attacking fluidity.
Eric Chelle would be better served by selecting a natural midfielder to fill the role. A combination of Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Raphael Onyedika could provide better balance, ensuring smoother transitions from midfield to attack.
A creative playmaker in the No. 10 role would also improve link-up play with the forwards.
Restore Aina to right-back and reintroduce Onyemaechi
Ola Aina was deployed at left-back against Rwanda but was substituted for Bruno Onyemaechi in the second half. Meanwhile, Bright Osayi-Samuel started at right-back but struggled to impose himself.
For the Zimbabwe clash, Aina should return to his natural right-back role, where he thrives for Nottingham Forest. Onyemaechi, a more natural left-back, can then slot in on the opposite flank to provide width and balance.
This adjustment would solidify Nigeria’s defensive shape while ensuring attacking support from the full-back positions.
Deploy a proper striker alongside Super Eagles talisman Osimhen
Moses Simon started as a second striker against Rwanda, supporting Osimhen in attack.
While Simon’s sharpness and movement were commendable, he is naturally a winger and lacks the physicality and hold-up play required in a two-striker system.
Against Zimbabwe, Eric Chelle should opt for a more natural forward to partner Osimhen. Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman or Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface would be ideal options.
Lookman’s dribbling ability and link-up play could complement Osimhen’s presence, while Boniface’s hold-up play would allow the Gala star to focus on finishing chances. A more dynamic strike partnership could unlock Zimbabwe’s defence and increase Nigeria’s attacking efficiency.
