Several Super Eagles players are in danger of missing the must-win World Cup playoff qualifier against Gabon on November 13, leaving head coach Eric Chelle with a major selection headache.
With injuries, suspensions, and fitness concerns piling up, Chelle faces a race against time to assemble a balanced squad capable of overcoming a determined Gabon side chasing their first-ever World Cup ticket.
Injury Crisis Up Front
Nigeria’s attacking options have been severely hit.
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Terem Moffi (Nice) has been ruled out after sustaining a calf injury in training.
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Cyriel Dessers (Panathinaikos) is also expected to miss the tie due to an ankle problem that has already sidelined him for his club’s last six games.
Their absence leaves the Super Eagles thin in attack and forces Chelle to consider alternative options for the frontline.
Defensive Setback
The defensive unit has also taken a major blow.
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Semi Ajayi will miss the game through suspension after accumulating yellow cards.
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Igoh Ogbu is ruled out with a hamstring injury, removing two key centre-back options from Chelle’s lineup.
Aina’s Fitness Doubt
Adding to Chelle’s woes, Ola Aina remains a doubt for the match as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.
Nottingham Forest’s medical update indicates the defender may not be fit until late December, dealing another setback to the Super Eagles’ defensive plans.
Aina, who has been one of Nigeria’s most consistent performers over the past 18 months, expressed optimism about his comeback, saying he will return “stronger than ever” once fully recovered.
What’s Next
With the squad set to convene in the coming days, Chelle will need to make swift tactical and personnel adjustments to maintain Nigeria’s momentum ahead of the crucial clash.
