Super Eagles Adjust Squad as Osimhen Faces Injury Setback

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will enter their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign without key striker Victor Osimhen, who has been ruled out due to a groin injury sustained during Galatasaray's 3-2 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir. Initially named in head coach Eric Chelle's 24-man squad, Osimhen's inability to recover in time was confirmed after he missed Galatasaray's subsequent 4-0 loss to Trabzonspor.

As a result, Chelle has called up Taiwo Awoniyi as a direct replacement. Nigeria is set to face Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau in Group L during the upcoming international window.

The Confederation of African Football acknowledged Osimhen's absence as a significant setback for Nigeria, highlighting six forwards expected to shoulder the attacking responsibilities: Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare, and newcomer George Ilenikhena. Akor Adams has been Chelle's preferred partner for Osimhen since his debut against Lesotho in 2025.