Former sports analyst Aniekeme Finbarr has shared an interesting and humorous opinion on social media ahead of the Super Eagles’ crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff match against Gabon on Thursday.
In his post, Finbarr urged fans to move past the recent controversy over players’ bonuses, suggesting that the issue may have been “fake news or mind games” to allow the team to focus on tactics.
He then shifted attention to what he called the “real suspense”, the Super Eagles’ starting line-up l, explaining that the team sheet would reveal the coach’s strategy and impact on the match outcome.
Finbarr outlined four possible scenarios for Nigeria’s approach against Gabon:
- The “Relax & Rejoice” option: Two strikers and one of Moses Simon or Ademola Lookman starting, meaning a balanced attack and high hopes for victory.
- The “No Tension” option: Osimhen leading the line with support from either Simon or Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze behind — a setup focused on control and creativity.
- The “Prayer Warrior” option: Osimhen isolated up front with both Simon and Lookman wide, which he joked would require fans to “hold your rosary or koran tight” and hope for individual brilliance.
- The “Eat Your Eba and Swallow” option: A defensive lineup with five defenders, leaving Osimhen isolated, which he described as “a long, stressful night” requiring fans to stay strong.
Finbarr concluded on a positive note, expressing joy over Ademola Lookman’s return and urging Nigerians to support the team wholeheartedly.
“The good news is that Lookman is back and available! So the positive scenarios are very possible. Let’s get behind the boys and shout our lungs out! UP SUPER EAGLES!” he wrote.