AFCON 2025: Two Tactical Formations That Could Define Nigeria’s Campaign

AFCON 2025: Two Tactical Formations That Could Define Nigeria’s Campaign

By Admin 

With the Africa Cup of Nations set to kick off next Sunday, anticipation continues to build around the Super Eagles of Nigeria and their quest for continental glory, BSNSports.com.ng reports. 

Head coach Éric Chelle has already unveiled his squad for the tournament, but questions remain over the tactical approach Nigeria will adopt across most of their matches.

Given the profile of players selected and recent tactical trends, the Super Eagles are likely to alternate between two primary formations during the competition. 

Here is a look at two possible lineups Chelle could deploy at 2025 AFCON.

Option One: 4-2-3-1 Formation

One of the most likely setups for Nigeria is a 4-2-3-1 formation, which offers balance between defensive solidity and attacking flexibility.

Stanley Nwabali is expected to start in goal, provided he is fully fit. In central defence, Calvin Bassey could partner Semi Ajayi, forming a physically strong and aerially dominant pairing. Zaidu Sanusi would operate from the left-back position, while Bright Osayi-Samuel is likely to feature at right-back.

In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka could be deployed as holding midfielders, tasked with shielding the defence and breaking up opposition play. Ahead of them, Alex Iwobi would take on the role of attacking midfielder, linking midfield and attack.

Ademola Lookman could start from the left wing, with Chidera Ejuke providing pace and creativity on the right. Leading the line, Victor Osimhen is expected to spearhead the attack as Nigeria’s main striker.

Option Two: 4-4-2 Formation

Alternatively, Chelle could opt for a 4-4-2 system, particularly if he seeks a more direct and aggressive attacking approach.

Should Nwabali be unavailable, Amas Obasogie of Singida Black Stars in Tanzania could be handed the starting role in goal. The central defensive pairing could see Chidozie Awaziem alongside Calvin Bassey, while Zaidu Sanusi and Bright Osayi-Samuel retain their roles at left-back and right-back respectively.

In midfield, Alex Iwobi could be paired with Frank Onyeka in central roles, offering a mix of creativity and work rate. Ademola Lookman would feature on the left wing, while Samuel Chukwueze provides width and attacking threat from the right.

Up front, Victor Osimhen could be partnered by Akor Adams, forming a two-man strike force aimed at stretching opposition defences and maximizing Nigeria’s goal-scoring potential.

As AFCON approaches, Chelle’s final tactical decisions will likely depend on player fitness, opposition analysis, and match situations. However, both formations highlight the depth and versatility available to the Super Eagles as they prepare for the tournament.