AFCON Qualifiers: Osimhen Makes Super Eagles Squad Despite Injury as Ilenikhena Earns First Call-Up

Victor Osimhen has been included in Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers despite an injury that has kept the Galatasaray striker out of action for the past two weeks.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle also handed Saudi Arabia-based forward George Ilenikhena his first senior international call-up as Nigeria prepares to face Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau in the AFCON qualifying campaign.

Nigeria will open their qualifying campaign against Madagascar in Uyo on Friday, September 25, before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29.

Chelle named a 24-man squad for the two competitive fixtures, with captain Wilfred Ndidi, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, defender Semi Ajayi, midfielder Alex Iwobi and forwards Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon among the experienced players selected.

Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, defenders Calvin Bassey and Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielders Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika, as well as forwards Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams and Tolu Arokodare, also made the squad.

England-based defenders Olaoluwa Aina and Benjamin Fredricks return to the national team, while Unity Cup standouts Arthur Okonkwo and Chibuike Nwaiwu have also been included.

Ilenikhena, Moses Usor and Portugal-based defender Isaac James have been handed their first call-ups to the senior national team. Ilenikhena, who previously represented France at youth level, recently committed his international future to Nigeria.

Chelle has also announced a separate 24-man squad for Nigeria’s international friendly against Russia at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on Tuesday, October 6.

The friendly squad will again be captained by Ndidi, with players including Simon, Nwabali, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Fredricks, Raphael Onyedika and Akor Adams selected.

Kelechi Iheanacho returns to the national team after a strong run of form with Bursaspor, while Ikorodu City goalkeeper Michael Atata and Enugu Rangers defender Kenneth Igboke have also received call-ups.

Abdullahi Bewene of FC Baník Ostrava retains his place after impressing during his previous appearance, while several new players have also been invited, including Finland-based goalkeeper Samuel James, Switzerland-based defender Victory Akpe and Fulham midfielder Chibuzo Nwoko.

The Russia fixture is expected to give Chelle an opportunity to assess emerging players alongside established members of the Super Eagles ahead of future international assignments.