Super Eagles Face Another Injury Blow Before Key World Cup Qualifiers

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have suffered another injury setback ahead of their must win 2026 World Cup qualifiers, as FC Nantes winger Moses Simon remains a major doubt due to an ankle injury. This comes shortly after Bayer Leverkusen’s Nathan Tella was ruled out of the upcoming matches due to a separate injury concern.

Nantes head coach Antoine Kombouaré confirmed that Simon has been unable to participate in team training for most of the week, spending time in the gym instead. While he managed to complete a session on Thursday, his ankle problem remains a concern. Kombouaré admitted that the club is carefully managing the injury, but it remains a complicated situation for the player.

Simon has been an integral part of the Super Eagles squad, known for his ability to unlock defences and provide attacking width. If he fails to recover in time, Sevilla winger Chidera Ejuke could step in as a suitable replacement. Ejuke, 27, has been in fine form and recently scored a crucial match-winner against Real Sociedad.

With key players potentially missing, the Super Eagles face a selection dilemma as they prepare for decisive qualifiers that could determine their World Cup fate.

Editorial

The Super Eagles’ preparation for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers has been thrown into disarray with back-to-back injury concerns. First, it was Nathan Tella, and now Moses Simon is facing a race against time to be fit. These setbacks highlight the fragile nature of international football, where national teams are often at the mercy of club football schedules and the physical toll it takes on players.

Moses Simon’s absence would be a significant blow. His pace, dribbling ability, and experience have made him a key attacking threat for Nigeria. He has consistently delivered for the national team, particularly in games where breaking down defensive setups has been a challenge. Losing him, alongside Tella, disrupts the team’s balance and forces the coaching staff to rethink their tactical approach.

However, adversity breeds opportunity. If Simon is ruled out, Chidera Ejuke presents an exciting alternative. The Sevilla winger is in good form and possesses similar attributes to Simon speed, flair, and the ability to create chances. He could prove to be the game-changer the Super Eagles need.

The biggest concern, however, is how these injuries impact Nigeria’s overall qualification hopes. The margin for error in World Cup qualifiers is razor-thin, and every point matters. With crucial games ahead, the Super Eagles must find a way to cope with these absences and ensure their qualification campaign does not suffer as a result.

The coaching staff now faces the challenge of reshuffling the squad effectively. Depth in the squad will be tested, and those stepping in must rise to the occasion. The World Cup dream is still alive, but the road to qualification just became a little tougher.

Did You Know?

1. Moses Simon has been capped over 60 times for Nigeria and has played in two Africa Cup of Nations AFCON tournaments.
2. Chidera Ejuke was once regarded as one of the most promising young Nigerian wingers after a breakout season with CSKA Moscow.
3. Nigeria has qualified for six of the last seven FIFA World Cups, missing only the 2006 edition in Germany.
4. The Super Eagles’ best World Cup performance came in 1994 and 1998, when they reached the Round of 16.
5. FC Nantes, where Simon plays, is one of France’s most historic clubs, having won the Ligue 1 title eight times.