The Flying Eagles most dependable defender Benjamin Frederick will be back in the starting XI for tonight’s knockout clash against hosts Argentina after he was not risked for the final group game against Brazil.
Central defender Fredrick, who was ever-present at the U20 AFCON in March, was on a booking before the Brazil match and he would have been suspended had he picked up another caution in the final Group D match against the South American champions.
He will now re-enact to his combo in the heart of the back four with Abel Ogwuche, while Bulgaria-based Tochukwu Nnadi is pushing to be considered ahead of Samson Lawal in attacking midfield.
Versatile Nnadi made a big impression when he was introduced in the second half and could well replace Samson Lawal, whose performances and numbers have not been great besides his match winner against the Dominican Republic.
Nnadi started the opening game against the Dominican Republic, but was then dropped to the bench for the game against Italy for Eletu.
The starting midfield tonight could therefore be Daniel Daga, Victor Eletu with Nnadi playing in a more advanced role as the offensive midfielder.
Kick-off time at what is expected to be a packed Estadio San Juan del Bicentario is 10pm with the overall winners battling the winners of another Round of 16 tie between Ecuador and South Korea for a place in the quarterfinal.
