Nigeria will face Egypt today, December 16, in an international friendly regarded as a crucial test match ahead of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.
Beyond the result, the encounter offers Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle an important opportunity to further assess his squad, fine tune tactics, and experiment with personnel against one of Africa’s most decorated teams.
Appointed earlier this year, Chelle has made an impressive start to life as Nigeria’s head coach.
In 11 matches in charge, he has recorded eight wins, two draws, and just one defeat with the Nigeria Senior Men’s National Team.
His impact is already evident in the team’s style of play, which emphasizes attacking football, effective use of the midfield, and constant pressure through a two striker system.
Chelle’s Tactical Philosophy
Under Chelle, Nigeria typically plays with an attacking mindset built around quick transitions and high work rate.
His teams blend disciplined defending with offensive flair, often deploying formations such as 4-3-1-2 or 4-4-2.
These systems allow for midfield control, player freedom, and fast breaks, while maintaining numerical presence in advanced areas.
At times, Chelle has also employed a high defensive line, pushing players forward in search of dominance.
This approach has occasionally seen defenders like Calvin Bassey stepping into advanced positions, leaving players such as Benjamin Fredericks to manage the backline.
Possible Tactical Variations
For this friendly, Chelle may opt to experiment further. He could revisit the 4-1-3-2 formation used against Gabon, switch to the 4-3-3 seen against Lesotho, or stick with his preferred 4-3-1-2 or 4-4-2 setups.
The flexibility in formation shows his intention to find the most balanced and effective system ahead of AFCON.
New Faces and Key Tests
One player who could be handed his debut is Ryan Alebiosu, a move that may help ease pressure ahead of the tournament.
Chelle could also test Alebiosu’s ability to play as a right-back, a role he has previously handled as a right wing-back at Blackburn Rovers.
His pace and ball-carrying ability could offer Nigeria an added dimension on the flank.
Midfield prospect Akinsanmiro Ebenezer is another player likely to be closely observed.
Having never played under Chelle, his inclusion would align with the coach’s strong emphasis on midfield performance.
Ebenezer’s displays with Pisa may have caught the technical crew’s attention, and this match provides a platform to assess whether he can fill potential gaps in the middle of the park.
Striker Selection Without Osimhen
With Victor Osimhen not yet with the squad, Chelle will have to try several options to lead the line. Paul Onuachu, Akor Adams, or Cyril Dessers could start as centre forward.
Onuachu, in particular, has never featured under Chelle, and his current form may prompt the coach to test how he partners with another striker in the two man attack.
A Worthy Opponent
Facing Egypt presents a valuable challenge. The Pharaohs are seven-time AFCON champions and are coached by legendary striker Hossam Hassan, himself a three-time AFCON winner.
Hassan has already guided Egypt into World Cup qualification, showing his quality and competitiveness.
Nigeria will come up against a blend of home based and foreign-based Egyptian stars, including Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush, Ahmed Zizo, and goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy.
Such opposition makes this friendly an ideal measuring stick for Chelle’s evolving Super Eagles.
Also read: Uzoho Explains ‘Good Relationship’ with Super Eagles Rivals Nwabali, Obasogie
Looking Ahead
Ultimately, the match against Egypt gives Eric Chelle the opportunity to assess his squad depth, test tactical flexibility, and evaluate individual performances against elite opposition.
As AFCON approaches, this friendly could play a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s final preparations and strengthening belief in Chelle’s attacking, modern football philosophy.
