George Ilenikhena has been handed a starting shirt on his Super Eagles debut against Madagascar by coach Eric Chelle.

The Al Ittihad striker leads the attack alongside Venezia FC striker Akor Adams in the absence of the injured Victor Osimhen.

Eric Chelle opted for a familiar backline with Stanley Nwabali in goal, the defensive partnership of Calvin Bassey and Semi Ayayi, Ola Aina returns as the right-back, while Bruno Onyemaechi retains his left full-back spot.

The Malian manager chose flair and creativity in midfield with Iwobi and Chukwueze, while captain Wilfred Ndidi is in the heart of the midfield.

Atletico Madrid’s Ademola Lookman also retains his position in Eric Chelle’s team and has the freedom to roam around the final third behind Ilenikhena and Adams.

Super Eagles XI v Madagascar: Nwabali, Aina, Bassey, Ajayi, Onyemaechi, Ndidi, Chukwueze, Iwobi, Lookman, Ilenikhena, Adams.

Bench: Arokodare, Osayi-Samuel, Benjamin, Onyedika, Onyeka, Nwaiwu, Maduka, Fernandez, Simon, Isaac, Moses