Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has confirmed his starting lineup for Tuesday's international friendly against Portugal, fielding what looks like a competitive and balanced side.

Maduka Okoye takes his place in goal, with the Udinese goalkeeper expected to be Nigeria's last line of defence. A back three of Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Bruno Onyemaechi is tasked with keeping the Portuguese attack at bay.

Ndidi anchors the midfield

Wilfred Ndidi lines up alongside Tochukwu Nnadi and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in the middle of the park, giving the Eagles a solid base from which to operate.

The most eye-catching selection is Genk youngster Christian Akpan, who earns his senior debut under the Malian tactician — a reward for the promising form he has shown at club level.

Experienced attacking options

Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, and Akor Adams round out the starting eleven, providing pace, creativity, and a consistent goal threat in the final third.

The match comes as Nigeria prepare for a double-header of friendlies, with Chelle having previously stated that the Super Eagles are capable of competing without absent stars Victor Osimhen and Wilfried Zaha's compatriot Lookman.

Super Eagles Starting XI vs Portugal: Okoye; Ajayi, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Dele-Bashiru, Nnadi, Akpan; Iwobi, Simon, Adams.