Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze will not be included in Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Zimbabwe, as confirmed by head coach Jose Peseiro. Both players sustained injuries during Nigeria’s friendly match against the Green Falcons of Saudi Arabia last month.
Although Samuel Chukwueze has returned to training, Victor Osimhen is still in the process of recovering from his injury. Peseiro has made it clear that they won’t be selected for the matches against Lesotho and Zimbabwe to avoid taking any unnecessary risks.
Peseiro stated, “Samuel Chukwueze and Victor Osimhen will not be called up during the next break; we want to avoid any risks.” He expressed his regret for their injuries and emphasized the importance of collaboration with the clubs, as the clubs are responsible for the players’ payments.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to face Lesotho at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Thursday, November 16, and then play against Zimbabwe at the Huye Stadium three days later.