Nigeria's Super Eagles have called up striker Taiwo Awoniyi to replace the injured Victor Osimhen in their squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed Awoniyi's inclusion on Sunday through the official Super Eagles X account. Awoniyi, 29, returns to the Super Eagles squad after making his last international appearance in October 2024. His recall gives head coach Éric Chelle another attacking option ahead of the two qualifying fixtures.
Awoniyi's inclusion follows Osimhen's withdrawal after the Galatasaray forward was ruled out with a right adductor muscle strain. Osimhen had initially been included in Chelle's squad in the hope that he would recover in time for the September international window. However, his recovery has been slower than expected, ruling him out of the qualifiers. The Super Eagles will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau four days later.
Awoniyi will join Nigeria's attacking powerhouse, including Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Samuel Chukwueze and Tolu Akorede. The striker's return comes as Nigeria kicks off their AFCON 2027 qualifiers in Group L with Osimhen unavailable for the opening fixtures. Nigeria's team preparations are crucial as they aim to secure a spot in the tournament.
The Nigeria Football Federation's decision to call up Awoniyi provides a boost to the team's attacking options. Awoniyi has previously played for Coventry City and has experience in international competitions. His addition is expected to strengthen the team's chances in the qualifiers.
The Super Eagles' matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau are crucial for their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign. A good performance in these matches will help Nigeria to progress in the tournament. The team's head coach, Éric Chelle, will be looking to make the most of the available players to achieve a positive outcome.
Victor Osimhen's injury is a setback for the Super Eagles, but the team's depth and resilience will be tested in the upcoming matches. The team's medical staff will continue to monitor Osimhen's recovery, hoping for his return in future matches.
The Super Eagles' AFCON 2027 qualifiers campaign will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. The team's performance will be crucial in determining their chances of progressing to the tournament. With Awoniyi's inclusion, the team is expected to put up a strong show against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Key points
- Taiwo Awoniyi replaces Victor Osimhen in Nigeria's AFCON 2027 qualifiers squad due to injury
- The Super Eagles will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on September 25
- Awoniyi returns to the Super Eagles squad after making his last international appearance in October 2024
