How Nigeria Could Line Up Against Zimbabwe in Unity Cup Semi-Final

How Nigeria Could Line Up Against Zimbabwe in Unity Cup Semi-Final

By Niyi Busari 

Defending Unity Cup champions Nigeria are expected to field a reshaped squad when they face Zimbabwe in Tuesday’s semi-final at The Valley in London, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Head coach Eric Chelle has opted for a largely refreshed squad for the tournament, with several established stars unavailable for selection. Despite those absences, the Super Eagles still possess a balanced mix of experienced internationals and emerging talents capable of delivering a competitive performance.

Nigeria head into the fixture in encouraging form, having recorded four wins from their last six matches in 2026. The Super Eagles also displayed attacking quality during the March international window, securing a 2-1 victory over Iran before playing out a 2-2 draw against Jordan.

However, Chelle will be without some of Nigeria’s biggest attacking names for the Unity Cup campaign. Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze are all absent from the squad, while first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has also not been included.

The changes are expected to create opportunities for fringe players and home-based talents eager to impress on the international stage.

Francis Uzoho is likely to start in goal ahead of newly invited goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo.

In defence, Bruno Onyemaechi is expected to occupy the left-back position, while Benjamin Tanimu, Fernandez, Igoh Ogbu, and Chibueze Oputa could complete the back four.

Captain Wilfred Ndidi is tipped to anchor the midfield alongside Alhassan Yusuf and Raphael Onyedika, providing a blend of defensive stability and energy in the centre of the pitch.

Further forward, Moses Simon is expected to offer creativity and width in attack, while Terem Moffi and Akor Adams could lead the line for the Super Eagles.

Predicted Nigeria XI vs Zimbabwe

Uzoho; Onyemaechi, Fernandez, Ogbu, Oputa; Ndidi, Alhassan, Onyedika; Simon; Moffi, Adams.

Zimbabwe, meanwhile, arrive in confident mood following consecutive victories over Botswana and Zambia’s Under-23 side. The Warriors have also proven difficult opponents for Nigeria in recent meetings, with the last three encounters between both nations ending in draws.

Nevertheless, Nigeria’s greater squad depth and attacking options could provide Chelle’s men with the advantage as they begin the defence of their Unity Cup title.