Chukwueze Doubtful As Five Super Eagles Ruled Out Ahead of World Cup Playoffs

Chukwueze Doubtful As Five Super Eagles Ruled Out Ahead of World Cup Playoffs 

By BSN Sports 

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has confirmed that five key players will miss Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff in Morocco, while Samuel Chukwueze remains a major doubt due to injury, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Nigeria will face Gabon on November 13 in their opening fixture of the playoff mini-tournament. The winner will meet either Cameroon or DR Congo in the final, with the eventual champion advancing to the intercontinental playoff in March 2026 where two World Cup tickets will be decided.

Speaking from France, Chelle disclosed that Terem Moffi, Felix Agu, Ola Aina, Cyriel Dessers, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru have all been ruled out due to various fitness concerns.

“I know we won’t be having at least five players; Terem Moffi, Felix Agu, Ola Aina, Cyriel Dessers, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru,” Chelle told OwnGoal Nigeria.

 “We also don’t know if Samuel Chukwueze will be available, but we have to find a way to play these games because we want to go to the World Cup.”

The absence of several established names presents a significant challenge for the Super Eagles’ technical team, particularly in attack and defense. Moffi and Dessers’ unavailability could force tactical reshuffles in the forward line, while Aina’s injury leaves a void in the backline.

Despite the setbacks, Chelle expressed confidence in the squad’s depth and resilience, insisting that the team remain focused on qualification. Emerging talents and fringe players are expected to get opportunities as Nigeria seeks to maintain its push toward securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup.