Nigeria’s midfield options for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe could take a hit as Club Brugge star, Raphael Onyedika faces an injury scare.
The Super Eagles midfielder was forced off in the 23rd minute of Club Brugge’s 2-1 home defeat to Standard Liège on Sunday, raising concerns over his availability for next month’s crucial qualifiers.
Club Brugge confirmed the injury but has yet to disclose its severity. The club posted an update on X, stating, “Onyedika has to go off injured. Nielsen comes in his place.”
His injury adds to Nigeria’s growing list of concerns, with Semi Ajayi and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru also suffering setbacks over the weekend. Ajayi picked up a knock during West Brom’s 2-0 win over Oxford United, while Dele-Bashiru sustained an ankle injury in Lazio’s goalless draw against Venezia.
The injuries could pose a significant challenge for new Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, as he prepares for his first competitive games in charge.
Onyedika, who has made 14 appearances for Nigeria and scored once, has been a key player for Club Brugge this season, contributing a goal and an assist in both the Belgian league and the UEFA Champions League. His club is set to face Aston Villa in the Champions League Round of 16, but his participation in the upcoming fixtures now hangs in the balance.
