Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika has added to Nigeria’s injury concerns after being forced off in the 23rd minute of his team’s Belgian Pro League match against Standard Liège. The exact nature of his injury has yet to be disclosed by the club, but his early exit raises concerns ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Onyedika’s injury comes at a troubling time for the Super Eagles, as he becomes the third Nigerian player to pick up an injury this weekend. Semi Ajayi sustained a knock during West Brom’s 2-0 win over Oxford United, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru suffered an ankle injury in Lazio’s goalless draw with Venezia.
With Nigeria preparing to face Rwanda and Zimbabwe next month, new head coach Eric Chelle now faces a selection dilemma, as injuries could significantly impact the squad’s depth and tactical plans.
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Editorial
The Super Eagles’ growing injury list ahead of the crucial World Cup qualifiers is a major concern. Raphael Onyedika’s forced substitution, alongside injuries to Semi Ajayi and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, highlights the unpredictability and physical toll of club football just weeks before international fixtures.
For Eric Chelle, this presents an immediate challenge. Midfield options could be limited if Onyedika’s injury turns out to be serious, and with Ajayi also sidelined, defensive stability might be compromised. Nigeria’s depth will now be tested, and the coaching staff may need to identify alternative options if these players are unavailable for selection.
The timing of these injuries couldn’t be worse. The upcoming qualifiers are must-win games, as Nigeria cannot afford to drop points in a group where every result matters. The Super Eagles already had questions about consistency, and now squad fitness adds another layer of uncertainty.
While the extent of Onyedika’s injury remains unclear, the Nigerian Football Federation must closely monitor the situation. If he, Ajayi, or Dele-Bashiru are unable to recover in time, Chelle may have to look at backup options from the local league or other European-based Nigerian talents.
The next few days will be crucial. If Nigeria is to make a strong statement in these qualifiers, they need their key players fit and ready to compete.
Did You Know?
- Raphael Onyedika was part of FC Midtjylland’s academy before moving to Club Brugge, where he has become a key midfield presence.
- Semi Ajayi has been one of Nigeria’s most consistent defenders, featuring prominently in the last AFCON campaign.
- Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, younger brother of Tom Dele-Bashiru, recently made his debut for the Super Eagles and has impressed in Serie A.
- Nigeria has struggled with injuries ahead of crucial qualifiers in previous campaigns, affecting squad consistency.
- The Super Eagles have not missed a World Cup since 2006 and are determined to qualify for the 2026 tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
