Osimhen Ruled Out as Awoniyi Earns Super Eagles Recall

Victor Osimhen has withdrawn from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming international break after being ruled out with a thigh injury, despite initially being named in coach Eric Chelle’s squad. The Super Eagles media team confirmed on Saturday night that Galatasaray had not declared Osimhen fit, prompting his withdrawal from the squad. Chelle has subsequently called up Coventry City striker Taiwo Awoniyi as his replacement for Nigeria’s upcoming international fixtures.

The recall marks Awoniyi’s return to the Super Eagles setup after an extended absence, with his last appearance coming in October 2024 during Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Libya in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

His subsequent absence was linked to recurring injury problems, inconsistent form and limited playing opportunities at his former club, Nottingham Forest. The striker has since moved to Coventry City, where regular football has given him another opportunity to stake his claim for a place in Chelle’s squad.

Awoniyi offers Nigeria a physical presence, pace, hold-up play and penalty-area movement, although his profile differs from Osimhen’s and he will not be expected to simply replicate the Galatasaray striker. He has also endured a difficult recent spell in front of goal, while his overall international experience and time competing against high-level defenders in England could prove useful if Chelle turns to him.

Nigeria are scheduled to face Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with Awoniyi now in contention for minutes as the Super Eagles adjust to Osimhen’s absence.