Crawley Town’s new signing, Benjamin Tanimu, has been called up to the Super Eagles squad to replace Fenerbahçe fullback Bright Osayi Samuel for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda. Osayi Samuel has been sidelined due to an ankle injury, missing Fenerbahçe’s recent league games and now the crucial AFCON qualifiers.
Tanimu, who is predominantly a center back but can also play as a right back, has enjoyed a rise in 2024, starting with a move to Tanzanian club Singida Black Stars before securing a two year deal with Crawley Town in League One. He has already represented Nigeria in recent international fixtures, starting in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification games against Benin and South Africa.
In Osayi Samuel’s absence, Ola Aina remains the only natural right-back in the squad, but Tanimu’s versatility will provide additional options for interim coach Austin Eguavoen as the Super Eagles prepare for their upcoming matches.
Editorial
Benjamin Tanimu’s inclusion in the Super Eagles squad marks a significant step in the young defender’s career. His versatility as both a centre back and right back will be valuable for the team, especially with the absence of Bright Osayi Samuel due to injury. Tanimu’s rise has been swift, moving from the Nigerian football scene to representing the national team on the international stage. Now, he has secured a move to Crawley Town in England.
As the Super Eagles approach the crucial AFCON qualifiers, Tanimu’s addition to the squad will be closely watched. His performance in these games could solidify his place in the national team setup, proving that he is ready for bigger challenges in both club and international football.
The ability to adapt to different positions is one of Tanimu’s strengths, and his presence in the squad adds depth to the Super Eagles defence. It will be interesting to see how he performs under pressure and how coach Eguavoen utilizes him in the upcoming qualifiers.
Did You Know?
- Benjamin Tanimu recently secured a two-year deal with Crawley Town in League One, marking his first stint in English football.
- Tanimu made his debut for the Super Eagles in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification games earlier this year.
- Bright Osayi Samuel, whom Tanimu is replacing, has been a key player for Fenerbahçe but is currently sidelined with an ankle injury.
- Ola Aina, another Super Eagles defender, has also played in multiple positions, similar to Tanimu’s versatility.
- The 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda are crucial as the Super Eagles aim to secure a spot in the tournament.
