2026 World Cup qualifiers: Top five Super Eagles stars doubtful for Lesotho and Zimbabwe clash

The Super Eagles of Nigeria face injury concerns ahead of their 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Zimbabwe

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are gearing up for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification ties against Lesotho and Zimbabwe, but injury concerns are threatening to disrupt their preparations, Soccernet.ng reports.

As head coach Jose Peseiro works diligently to secure a World Cup ticket after the team missed out on the 2022 World Cup, several key Super Eagles players are doubtful for the upcoming clashes against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.

1. Samuel Chukwueze:

AC Milan forward Chukwueze is set to miss approximately one month of action due to a left hamstring injury sustained while on international duty with the Super Eagles.

His absence is a significant blow, given his recent impactful cameo in Nigeria’s 6-0 victory against São Tomé and Príncipe. Reports suggest Peseiro is considering options like Nathan Tella to fill the void.

2. Victor Osimhen:

Napoli forward Osimhen has been sidelined since suffering an injury during the Super Eagles’ match against the Green Falcons of Saudi Arabia.

He has missed four games for Napoli and traveled to Nigeria to address family matters, leaving gaps in the Super Eagles squad. Peseiro may turn to players like Gift Orban, who seeks to regain his form at KAA Gent.

3. Taiwo Awoniyi:

Although Awoniyi recently returned from a three-week injury layoff, the 26-year-old striker is still regaining full fitness.

Nottingham Forest manager Steve Cooper remains uncertain about Awoniyi’s readiness to start, particularly for Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers.

4. Bruno Onyemaechi:

Defender Bruno Onyemaechi is among the Super Eagles players in doubt for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers after sustaining a muscle injury in training with Portuguese club Boavista.

Onyemaechi missed Boavista’s recent league match due to the muscle issue. He has featured in the Eagles’ last three games but faces uncertainty for the upcoming matches.

Peseiro may consider Zaidu Sanusi, who is expected to return for FC Porto’s Champions League clash against Antwerp.

5. Wilfred Ndidi:

Ndidi’s absence could be a significant setback, as he plays a crucial role in the Super Eagles’ midfield and is a key figure for Leicester City. Currently ruled out for a month, Ndidi’s participation in the upcoming qualifiers is in doubt.

The Super Eagles will aim to overcome these injury concerns as they seek to secure their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.