Several Super Eagles players are in danger of missing the must-win World Cup playoff qualifier against Gabon on November 13.
Head coach Eric Chelle faces a major selection crisis as a wave of injuries, fitness doubts, and suspension threatens to disrupt the Super Eagles’ plans just days before their crucial World Cup playoff against Gabon.
With the squad set to convene, absences across key attacking and defensive positions mean Chelle must immediately consider tactical adjustments and replacements to counter a Gabon side pushing for their first-ever World Cup ticket.
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Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles boss has revived Nigeria’s World Cup dream and wants to fortify the team. | Credit: X
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Super Eagles boss Chelle faces selection issues ahead of Gabon clash
In attack, Nice forward Terem Moffi has been ruled out after picking up a calf injury in training, and Panathinaikos striker Cyriel Dessers is also expected to miss the tie due to an ankle injury.
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The Super Eagles of Nigeria || X
Dessers has already missed his club’s last six games, further limiting Nigeria’s options in the final third.
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Cyriel Dessers for Nigeria || Imago
Defensively, the problems are acute. Semi Ajayi is ruled out due to accumulated yellow cards, and defender Igoh Ogbu has been ruled out with a hamstring injury, meaning Chelle loses two reliable centre-back options.
I will be back — Super Eagles star Ola Aina vows to return stronger after injury setback
Compounding the issue, Ola Aina remains a major doubt as he continues recovery from a hamstring injury.
Nottingham Forest’s medical update suggests he may not be match-ready until late December, which is another blow as Aina has been one of the country’s most consistent performers over the past 18 months.
