Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been dealt with a big blow ahead of their important 2026 World Cup Qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, as defender Semi Ajayi has suffered another hamstring injury.
Ajayi, who plays for West Brom, has been ruled out of action after picking up the injury, which is a major setback for the Super Eagles.
The 30-year-old defender had only just returned to action two weeks ago after spending four months on the sidelines due to a similar injury.
Nigeria coach Eric Chelle is yet to take charge of a game, and the absence of Ajayi will be a big blow to his plans.
Ajayi’s experience and quality at the back will be sorely missed, and Chelle will have to look to other players to fill the void.
The top two Nigerian centerbacks, William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey, are likely to start, but Chelle will have to choose a third centerback from a pool of players that includes Olisa Ndah, Gabriel Osho, Kevin Akpoguma, and Kenneth Omeruo.
The Super Eagles are in a difficult position in their World Cup qualifying group, having picked up just three points from their first four games. They are condemned to win their next two games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Ajayi’s absence will make the task even more challenging, but Chelle will be hoping that his team can rise to the occasion and secure the much-needed wins.
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