Nigeria names 24-man squad for Tanzania qualifiers without Osimhen
Coach Eric Chelle's group for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations double-header leaves out three well-known names.
Nigeria coach Eric Chelle has named a 24-man squad for two qualifying matches against Tanzania, part of the road to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. Three notable names are missing: Victor Osimhen, Maduka Okoye and Kelechi Iheanacho. Osimhen is out injured, while ESPN's analysis calls Iheanacho's omission "baffling."
Why it matters Qualifying matches decide which teams reach the tournament, so squad choices get close attention from fans. Losing familiar players can change how a team lines up, and it gives others in the squad a chance to step forward. The reasons for Okoye's and Iheanacho's absences weren't detailed, so it's too early to read much into them.
What to watch Follow how Chelle's group performs across both Tanzania matches, and whether any of the missing players return in later squads.
Source: ESPN
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- ESPN · Nov 9, 2026
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