Feyenoord academy graduate and Almere City fullback Hamdi Akujobi has withdrawn from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming Unity Cup after sustaining a knee injury. Born in Rotterdam, Netherlands, the 25 year old is eligible to represent Nigeria through his father, Chika Akujobi, who is originally from Owerri, Imo State. Despite being included in Eric Chelle’s provisional squad for the Unity Cup, Akujobi will now miss the tournament set to take place in London from May 27.
Akujobi suffered the injury during Almere City’s 2-1 defeat to Heerenveen on April 19, forcing him to undergo surgery. As a result, he is also sidelined for Almere City’s remaining three games of the Eredivisie season. The talented fullback made 28 appearances this season, contributing one goal and an assist, solidifying his role as a reliable defender for the Dutch side.
This setback delays Akujobi’s anticipated debut for the Super Eagles, which many had hoped would come during the Unity Cup fixtures against Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Jamaica.
Editorial
Hamdi Akujobi’s injury-enforced withdrawal from the Super Eagles’ Unity Cup squad is a significant blow not only for the player but for Nigeria’s preparations as well. After an impressive season with Almere City, Akujobi was set to bring his European experience and defensive solidity to Eric Chelle’s team. His absence now leaves a gap in Nigeria’s defensive lineup that could affect their strategy in London.
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For Akujobi, the timing is unfortunate. This was an opportunity to establish himself on the international stage, wearing the green and white of Nigeria for the first time. Now, his focus shifts to recovery and reclaiming his form, with hopes of future call-ups. For Nigeria, it is an opportunity to test other options in the squad.
Football, as always, moves forward, but Akujobi’s presence will certainly be missed.
Did You Know?
- Hamdi Akujobi was part of the Flying Eagles training camp before the 2019 FIFA U20 World Cup but did not make the final squad for Poland.
- His father, Chika Akujobi, once managed Nigerian international Kenneth Omeruo during his time at Chelsea.
- Akujobi scored his first professional goal for Almere City during the 2024/2025 Eredivisie season.
- He was on the radar of Dutch youth teams before choosing to represent Nigeria internationally.
- Almere City, his current club, won promotion to the Eredivisie in 2023, marking their first time in the Dutch top flight.
