Irikhefe Oghenetega Victor
Super Eagles forward Sadiq Umar is expected to miss Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers after suffering a hamstring injury while on club duty with Valencia.
The 29-year-old started and played the full 90 minutes in Valencia’s 3-1 defeat to Deportivo La Coruña on Saturday, scoring his side’s only goal. However, he was seen limping when he returned to training on Monday morning.
According to reports, Sadiq faces up to two months on the sidelines and is not expected to return to action until late October or early November. As a result, he will be unavailable for selection by head coach Éric Chelle during the September international window.
Despite the setback, Nigeria retain considerable depth in attack. Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen remains a key figure, while Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare and Cyriel Dessers provide further options for the coaching staff.
The Super Eagles begin their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign in Group L against Madagascar, Tanzania and Guinea-Bissau. Their first match is scheduled for Wednesday, 23 September 2026, against Madagascar at home, followed by an away fixture against Guinea-Bissau on 27 September.
With Tanzania already assured of a place at the finals as co-hosts, Nigeria must finish ahead of Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau to secure automatic qualification for the 2027 tournament.
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