Taiwo Awoniyi has been called up to the Super Eagles squad after Victor Osimhen was ruled out of Nigeria’s opening AFCON 2027 qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed Awoniyi’s return on Sunday, September 20, after Osimhen’s recovery from a right adductor muscle strain took longer than expected. The change gives coach Eric Chelle another experienced option as Nigeria begins its campaign for a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Osimhen’s Injury Changes Nigeria’s Plans
Osimhen was initially included in Chelle’s squad because there was hope he would recover in time for the September international window. However, the Galatasaray striker remained unavailable for his club’s league match against Trabzonspor on September 19, which was viewed as an important test of his fitness.
His absence means Nigeria will begin the 2027 AFCON qualifiers without one of its main attacking options. The Super Eagles are scheduled to face Madagascar in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to Guinea-Bissau for the second qualifier on September 29.
Why Awoniyi Is the Natural Replacement
Awoniyi brings experience of international football and English club football to a squad preparing for two competitive matches. The 29-year-old recently joined newly promoted Coventry City from Nottingham Forest in a reported £9 million transfer.
His call-up also gives Chelle a striker who can offer a different physical presence in attack. With Osimhen unavailable, Nigeria’s attacking setup may require adjustments depending on how the coach wants to approach the two games.
Awoniyi’s immediate task is not simply replacing Osimhen’s name on the squad list. He will need to fit into Chelle’s attacking plans quickly, with Nigeria having little time to prepare before the Madagascar match.
The Timing Makes the Call-Up Important
The timing of the change means Awoniyi will enter the squad just days before the first qualifier. That limits the amount of time available for tactical work, although his familiarity with the national team should help.
Nigeria will also have another international assignment after the AFCON qualifiers. The Super Eagles are scheduled to play Russia in a friendly on October 6, although Awoniyi’s replacement call-up specifically covers the two AFCON qualifiers.
For Chelle, the immediate focus is therefore on getting the attack functioning without Osimhen while avoiding an unnecessary rush with the injured striker. The opening two matches could also give other forwards an opportunity to establish themselves in the coach’s plans.
The Nigeria AFCON 2027 qualification campaign begins with an unexpected selection change, but the objective remains the same: start the qualifying campaign strongly and put the Super Eagles in a good position before the later rounds of fixtures.
