Super Eagles Face Injury Concerns Ahead of AFCON Qualifiers
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 an injury crisis ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, with several key players dealing with fitness concerns. Experienced defender Semi Ajayi suffered a hamstring injury during Hull City’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Manchester United, having scored the opening goal before being substituted in the 64th minute.
Ajayi’s absence could leave head coach Éric Chelle with a major defensive selection problem ahead of Nigeria’s opening qualifying matches scheduled between September 21 and October 6.
Nigeria’s defensive options are already stretched, with Igoh Ogbu recovering from an Achilles injury and Benjamin Fredrick sidelined since suffering a knee injury in November 2025. Emmanuel Fernandez and Chibuike Nwaiwu have also faced scrutiny over errors this season, increasing the importance of Ajayi’s potential return.
The 32-year-old defender’s experience, aerial ability and partnership with Calvin Bassey make his fitness particularly important to Chelle’s plans.
The Super Eagles’ concerns extend beyond defence, with promising attacker Femi Azeez also facing uncertainty after being substituted just 30 minutes into Millwall’s Championship victory over Bristol City because of hamstring discomfort.
Millwall manager Alex Neil’s assessment of the injury will provide further clarity as Chelle monitors his players ahead of the international window. With several important players carrying injuries, Nigeria’s preparations for the AFCON qualifiers could depend heavily on the speed of their recoveries and the depth available to Chelle.