September AFCON Qualifiers Under Threat as Injuries Hit Six Super Eagles Players

Posted : 03 September 2026

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are facing a growing injury crisis ahead of their September Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures, with six players currently dealing with injuries. The setbacks have raised concerns over Eric Chelle’s squad options as the new European club season gets underway.

Christantus Uche is among the biggest casualties after suffering a serious knee injury during Getafe’s pre-season friendly against Monaco on August 6. The midfielder sustained multiple ligament and meniscus injuries in his right knee and has undergone surgery, ruling him out for the remainder of the season.

Uche’s extended absence is a major setback for both Getafe and Nigeria. The 23-year-old had spent last season on loan at Crystal Palace, where he made 22 appearances but played only 477 minutes in the Premier League before returning to Spain.

Sadiq Umar has also become a concern for the Super Eagles after suffering a hamstring injury with Valencia. The striker sustained the problem after scoring in a 3-1 victory over Deportivo La Coruña and is currently following a rehabilitation programme. Valencia have not given a definite return date, leaving his availability for Nigeria uncertain.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru is another midfielder facing a spell on the sidelines. The Lazio player suffered a thigh injury during the club’s 1-0 victory over Bologna and is expected to miss around two to three weeks, putting his participation in Nigeria’s September fixtures in doubt.

Zaidu Sanusi is facing an even longer absence after sustaining a right adductor injury during Porto’s 3-0 victory over Académico de Viseu. The defender was forced off early in the match, and reports indicate that he could be sidelined for around two months.

The injury is particularly significant for Chelle because Sanusi had started every minute of Porto’s league campaign before the setback. His absence could leave Nigeria with another defensive selection problem during the international window.

Marseille midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi has also suffered a knee injury. The 23-year-old had been trying to establish himself under new coach Roberto De Zerbi, but the setback could interrupt his efforts to earn regular first-team football and further develop his place in the Super Eagles setup.

Yira Sor completes the list after suffering a serious hamstring injury during Amedspor’s 2-1 comeback victory over Trabzonspor. The winger scored Amedspor’s equaliser before being forced off, while Gift Orban later scored the winner.

Amedspor confirmed that an MRI revealed an approximately 11-centimetre injury to Sor’s left biceps femoris. His recovery is expected to take about six weeks.

The growing injury list leaves Chelle with important decisions to make before Nigeria’s September qualifiers. The Super Eagles will hope their remaining options stay fit as preparations continue for the crucial AFCON qualification campaign.

September AFCON Qualifiers Under Threat as Injuries Hit Six Super Eagles Players

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics