Taiwo Awoniyi has been recalled to the Nigeria squad to replace Victor Osimhen for the Super Eagles’ upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Osimhen has been ruled out of the two fixtures after his recovery from a right adductor muscle strain took longer than expected, according to Super Eagles media officer Promise Efoghe.
The Galatasaray striker had initially been named in Nigeria’s squad for the international window as there were hopes he would recover in time to feature.
Those hopes have now been dashed, with Nigeria turning to Awoniyi as a replacement in the attack.
Osimhen recovery takes longer
Osimhen’s fitness had been closely monitored since he suffered the adductor injury, with his inclusion in the original squad suggesting that he remained in contention for the qualifiers.
However, the 27-year-old was not fit enough to feature in Galatasaray’s Süper Lig meeting with Trabzonspor on Saturday.
The match had been viewed as an opportunity to assess his readiness ahead of international duty, but his continued absence indicated that his recovery had not progressed sufficiently.
Nigeria have consequently opted to withdraw him from the squad and bring in Awoniyi.
Awoniyi returns to Super Eagles
Awoniyi will now link up with the Super Eagles ahead of the qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Nigeria confirmed the change on their official X account.
“Coventry City striker, Taiwo Awoniyi replaces Victor Osimhen in Nigeria’s squad for the AFCON 2027 qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau,” the Super Eagles announced.
“Welcome back, Taiwo.”
The recall provides Awoniyi with another opportunity to contribute to Nigeria’s attack after Osimhen’s withdrawal.
Nigeria turn focus to qualifiers
The Super Eagles will now prepare for the two AFCON qualifiers without their first-choice striker.
Osimhen’s delayed recovery has forced Nigeria to make a late adjustment to their attacking options, with Awoniyi stepping into the squad.
The Coventry City forward will now join the rest of the team as Nigeria turns its attention to the two fixtures and its bid to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
