UYO, Nigeria — September 24, 2026
Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi has played down concerns over Victor Osimhen’s absence ahead of Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Madagascar.
Osimhen was ruled out of Nigeria’s September qualifiers after failing to recover from a muscle injury suffered while playing for Galatasaray against Başakşehir. The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed that he would miss the matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Awoniyi, who was called up as Osimhen’s replacement, said the other forwards in camp have the quality to step up when called upon.
“Everyone is able to start, everyone is here.”
The Coventry City striker also praised Osimhen, describing him as a good friend and highlighting his achievements with the national team.
Awoniyi focuses on the team
Awoniyi said the main target is to secure maximum points from the upcoming fixtures.
Nigeria will face Madagascar in Uyo on Friday, September 25, before travelling to Guinea-Bissau for the second qualifier on September 29.
With Osimhen unavailable, Awoniyi, Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams and George Ilenikhena are among the attacking options available to coach Éric Chelle.
The recall marks Awoniyi’s return to the Super Eagles after about two years away from the national team. His last appearance came against Libya in an AFCON qualifier in November 2024.
MONAFRIKA WATCH
Osimhen’s absence has changed Nigeria’s attacking options, but Awoniyi’s message is clear: the responsibility now rests with the players available.
The opening match against Madagascar will provide the first competitive test of how Nigeria’s attack performs without its leading striker.
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