Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle Faces Crisis Ahead of AFCON Qualifiers with Key Player Injury Doubts
Nigeria's Super Eagles face a significant injury crisis ahead of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, with key players Semi Ajayi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Femi Azeez all sidelined. These setbacks present a major challenge for Coach Éric Chelle as he prepares the squad for their crucial opening matches.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are facing a concerning injury crisis as preparations intensify for the crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, with several key players picking up significant ailments. These setbacks pose a major challenge for head coach Éric Chelle, who is tasked with assembling a formidable squad for the opening matches scheduled between September 21 and October 6.
Among the most prominent casualties is experienced defender Semi Ajayi, who suffered a hamstring injury during Hull City's triumphant 2-0 Premier League debut victory over Manchester United. Ajayi, 32, had a dream start to Hull City's return to the top flight, scoring the opening goal in the 17th minute against Manchester United at the MKM Stadium. However, his memorable afternoon was cut short when he complained of a hamstring problem and was substituted in the 64th minute by Paddy McNair. Hull manager Sergej Jakirovic confirmed post-match that Ajayi was among several defenders forced off due to injury. Ajayi's importance to the Super Eagles cannot be overstated; his extensive experience in English football, calm demeanor, and aerial strength make him a vital partner to Calvin Bassey in Nigeria's defensive line, leaving Coach Chelle with a significant void to fill.
The defensive woes are compounded by uncertainties surrounding other key players. Coach Chelle already faces a defensive selection headache, as other centre-back options like Emmanuel Fernandez and Chibuike Nwaiwu have been scrutinized for errors this season. Igoh Ogbu is still recovering from an Achilles injury, while Benjamin Fredrick has been out of competitive action since a knee injury in November 2025 during Nigeria's World Cup play-offs. This makes Ajayi's swift recovery paramount for the Super Eagles.
Adding to the growing list of concerns is promising attacker Femi Azeez, who was forced off after just 30 minutes in Millwall's Championship victory over Bristol City due to hamstring discomfort. Millwall boss Alex Neil described Azeez as a