Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is facing a significant midfield crisis ahead of Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifiers, as both Raphael Onyedika and Fisayo Dele Bashiru are sidelined with injuries.
Onyedika, who plays for Club Brugge, will be out for approximately six weeks after sustaining a hamstring injury during their 5-5 draw against Westerlo on matchday eight of the Belgian league. This injury means the 24-year-old midfielder will miss Nigeria’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin Republic, which are pivotal for the Super Eagles’ chances of securing a spot in the 2026 tournament. The stakes have been raised further following FIFA’s recent decision to deduct three points from South Africa, which has reshaped the dynamics of Group C.
Adding to Chelle’s concerns, Dele Bashiru is also unavailable for the next month due to a thigh injury. With both midfielders out of action, Chelle is now faced with a problem and may be forced to call up another player. Al Hassan Yusuf, who has been a regular for New England Revolution , is seen as a likely option to fill the void. Yusuf has impressed this season in the MLS, having featured in 32 games. He could be Chelle’s preferred choice to reinforce the midfield.