Grapevine

Osimhen benched as Boniface leads Super Eagles against Benin Republic

Ademola Lookman and Victor Boniface are selected to spearhead the attack in the absence of Osimhen, who endured a failed transfer on deadline day, which culminated in the 25-year-old joining Gatalasary on loan.

The striker also resumed late to the Eagles camp and would have to make do with a place on the bench as Nigeria seeks to avenge the defeat to Benin Republic in the World Cup qualifiers in June.

Lookman, recently nominated for the FIFA Balon d’Or award, was one of the Super Eagles’ best performers at AFCON 2023 earlier in the year, where his goals led Nigeria to a runners-up place.

Samuel Chukwueze of AC Milan completes the front trio as interim coach Augustine Eguavoen looks set to deploy a 4-3-3 formation against the Cheetahs of Benin.

Stanley Nwabali retains his starting place in goal ahead of revitalised Maduka Okoye.