Nigeria’s ambition to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup has encountered a significant setback with the likely absence of two pivotal players, Terem Moffi and Semi Ajayi. Both are expected to miss the crucial playoff encounter against Gabon next month, according to reports from Soccernet.ng.
Although the Super Eagles delivered a commanding 4-0 triumph over Benin in Uyo, this victory was insufficient to guarantee direct qualification for the World Cup. Consequently, Nigeria must now navigate the playoffs, contending with Cameroon, DR Congo, and Gabon for a coveted berth in the global tournament.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF has scheduled Nigeria’s playoff clash with Gabon for November 13 in Morocco, coinciding with the Cameroon versus DR Congo match.
Nigeria Super Eagles” width=”750″ height=”612″ />The victors from these two fixtures will meet on November 16 to determine who advances to the intercontinental playoffs – the final hurdle before the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico in 2026.
This playoff round represents a crucial second chance for Nigeria, although the team is already facing emerging challenges.
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Ajayi Suspended and Moffi Injured Ahead of Nigeria’s Vital Playoff Against Gabon
Hull City defender Semi Ajayi will be sidelined for the first leg of the playoffs after receiving a second yellow card during the win over Benin, triggering an automatic suspension for the upcoming match against Gabon.
Nonetheless, head coach Eric Chelle is anticipated to keep Ajayi in the squad for the second leg, hoping that Nigeria’s advancement will enable the defender to return and strengthen the defense against either Cameroon or DR Congo.
More concerning is the calf injury suffered by striker Terem Moffi, who picked up the strain shortly after rejoining his French club, OGC Nice.
The forward, who featured briefly as a substitute against Benin, reportedly felt discomfort during a light training session on Thursday.
“Terem sustained an injury this morning during his initial training after returning from international duty. Despite the session being light, he experienced calf pain,” Nice coach Franck Haise told France Bleu via Rotowire. “He is expected to be out for several weeks. We will provide updates tomorrow.”
This injury comes at a critical juncture for Moffi, who had started the last three Ligue 1 matches for Nice and was steadily regaining form following a challenging injury period last season. His absence paves the way for teammates Kevin Omoruyi and Jeremie Boga to take on more prominent roles at the club level.
For coach Chelle, this development may necessitate tactical adjustments. With Moffi sidelined, the Nigerian manager might turn to in-form forwards such as Paul Onuachu, Kelechi Iheanacho, or Gift Orban, all of whom have been delivering impressive performances for their clubs this season.