Salim Fago Lawal Doubtful for Nigeria's March Friendlies

Salim Fago Lawal, a 23-year-old striker, is doubtful for Nigeria's upcoming friendly matches against the Iran National Football Team on March 27 and the Jordan National Football Team on March 31. Lawal was forced off during Viktoria Plzeň's match against FC Hradec Králové on Sunday due to an unspecified injury.

This setback is significant as Lawal was poised to earn his first full cap for Nigeria after recently breaking into the Super Eagles setup, contributing to the team’s bronze medal win at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. He made his Nigeria debut with a 90-minute appearance against the Uganda National Football Team in the final group game of the tournament.

Despite the injury, which has not been confirmed as severe, the coaching staff, led by head coach Ric Chell, remains hopeful that Lawal's absence will not disrupt tactical plans, as he is competing for a starting position among established forwards like Victor Osimhen and Paul Onuachu.