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Super Eagles possible starting XI vs Jamaica: Chukwueze, Dessers key to Unity Cup triumph

Super Eagles possible starting XI vs Jamaica: Chukwueze, Dessers key to Unity Cup triumph

At the Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, two teams from different continents meet under a shared banner of football pride.

It’s Nigeria versus Jamaica — Eric Chelle’s exciting Super Eagles against a spirited Reggae Boyz side led by the vastly experienced Steve McClaren.

Unity Cup final: Nigeria vs Jamaica

Nigeria edged out their West African rivals Ghana in a tightly contested 2-1 semi-final win, and now, the Unity Cup defending champions eye a successful title defence against a Jamaica side still buzzing after a dramatic 94th-minute penalty sent them past Trinidad and Tobago.

While Jamaica’s journey has been defined by grit, Nigeria’s has been about rediscovery — a blend of young promise and veteran steel under their new Franco-Malian boss.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle

As Chelle looks to remain unbeaten and wrap up his first tournament in charge with silverware, here’s how the Super Eagles could line up against Jamaica in this highly anticipated final clash.

After missing the Ghana game due to a late arrival in camp, Maduka Okoye is in contention for a first start under Chelle.

The Udinese shot-stopper brings European pedigree and excellent shot-stopping ability.

Nigeria Super Eagles

While Stanley Nwabali was decent against Ghana — with a couple of sharp saves and some nervy moments — Okoye is likely to be handed the gloves for this one as Chelle rotates slightly ahead of the September World Cup qualifiers.

At right-back, Remo Stars’ Sadiq Ismaila has staked his claim for more regular action.

After a stellar NPFL season capped by his title-winning heroics, he brought pace, tenacity, and an assist in the semi-final. Expect him to retain his spot.

In central defence, question marks hang over Semi Ajayi’s fitness.

The West Brom defender looked commanding against Ghana but missed training in recent days. If fit, he starts. If not, Chelle is likely to hand a debut to Rangers’ 21-year-old Ifeanyi Onyebuchi alongside Igho Ogbu.

Nigeria and Slavia Prague star Igoh Ogbu. Photo by IMAGO

Ogbu, Nigeria’s standout defender in the win over Ghana, was composed and authoritative despite one risky pass. The Slavia Prague centre-back looks a solid option whether Ajayi starts or not.

Bruno Onyemaechi continues to own the left-back slot. The Olympiacos full-back combines energy with positional discipline.

With Felix Agu not expected to feature due to an agreement with Werder Bremen, Onyemaechi is a shoo-in once more.

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