Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has been left out of Nigeria’s 25-man squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania, as he continues his recovery from injury.
Osimhen’s absence is a major talking point following the unveiling of the squad by Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle, who is preparing his team for two crucial encounters against the Taifa Stars.
The Galatasaray forward, who remains one of Nigeria’s most influential attacking players, will miss another international assignment as he works towards full fitness.
In his absence, Chelle has called up several attacking options, including Ademola Lookman, Taiwo Awoniyi, Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare, Moses Simon and Moses Usor.
Atletico Madrid forward Lookman will be expected to provide attacking creativity, while Awoniyi and Adams offer additional options in the striking department.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi leads the squad, which also features established internationals Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Stanley Nwabali.
There are also notable returns, with midfielders Tochukwu Nnadi, Alhassan Yusuf and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru included after recovering from injuries.
Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho has also earned a recall, while Slavia Prague midfielder Mubarak Suleiman receives his first-ever senior national team invitation.
Nigeria will host Tanzania at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, November 13, before travelling to Dar es Salaam for the return fixture on Tuesday, November 17.
The Super Eagles currently occupy second position in Group L and will be targeting maximum points from both matches to strengthen their qualification chances.
With only one qualification ticket available from the group, Nigeria cannot afford to drop points against the Tanzanians.
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
FULL SUPER EAGLES SQUAD
Goalkeepers
Arthur Okonkwo, Francis Uzoho, Stanley Nwabali.
Defenders
Bruno Onyemaechi, Ola Aina, Benjamin Fredricks, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Abdullahi Bewene.
Midfielders
Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Alhassan Yusuf, Tochukwu Nnadi, Samson Tijani, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Mubarak Suleiman.
Forwards
Moses Simon, Taiwo Awoniyi, Akor Adams, Ademola Lookman, Tolu Arokodare, Moses Usor.
