Benjamin Fredrick gives Eric Chelle selection dilemma ahead of Tanzania return

Nigeria coach Eric Chelle must decide whether Benjamin Fredrick has done enough to retain his place ahead of Semi Ajayi for Tuesday’s AFCON 2027 qualifier against Tanzania in Zanzibar.

Fredrick started alongside Calvin Bassey in Friday’s 3-1 victory in Uyo, with Ajayi left out of the starting XI. The Brentford defender has since recovered from cramp, leaving Chelle with a fully fit pair of centre-backs to choose from for the return fixture.

Nigeria used a reshaped back four in the opening match. Ola Aina moved to left-back, while Abdullahi Bewene made his first competitive appearance for Nigeria at right-back.

Both Fredrick and Bassey experienced cramp during the match, but Chelle said on Saturday that the two defenders were in good physical condition afterwards, as reported by ThisDay. They are therefore available for the game in Zanzibar.

Fredrick makes case for another start

Ajayi has been among Nigeria’s most consistent defenders, making his omission from the team against Tanzania a significant decision by Chelle.

Complete Sports’ Adeboye Amosu assessed Fredrick’s performance positively and concluded that the defender had justified his selection. Afrik-Foot also described Fredrick’s display on his return to the starting line-up as decent, although it noted that Bassey was questionable in some defensive moments.

Nigeria took the lead through Alhassan Yusuf before Tanzania equalised in the 32nd minute. Tolu Arokodare then scored twice after half-time to secure the win.

On the evidence of the match in Uyo, Fredrick has a strong argument for keeping his place. He was selected by Chelle, performed his role and helped Nigeria to victory. Replacing him immediately could send an unhelpful message to a young defender the coach clearly rates.

Ajayi’s case is based more on the demands of the next match than on Fredrick’s performance. An away qualifier, particularly in a group where dropping points could prove costly, may require the experience and composure Ajayi offers in the penalty area.

The balance of the defence could also influence Chelle’s decision. Bewene is new to competitive football at this level, while Aina was deployed on his less familiar side. Chelle may therefore prefer to include a centre-back with extensive experience of away qualifiers.

If Nigeria retain the same back four, Fredrick is likely to continue alongside Bassey. However, changes at full-back could increase the chances of Ajayi returning, with his experience potentially providing greater stability to a defensive line containing more unfamiliar elements.

Whatever Chelle decides, Nigeria will travel to Zanzibar with two fit centre-backs and a reliable alternative on the bench. Tuesday’s kick-off is at 14:00 WAT.