Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign has taken a hit, as both Akor Adams and Stanley Nwabali have suffered injuries just weeks before important fixtures against Rwanda and South Africa. The two players’ absences provoke fresh concerns for coach Eric Chelle as the Super Eagles aim to turn around a shaky start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup bid.
Sevilla striker Akor Adams, who was on the cusp of earning his first appearance for Nigeria, faces a frustrating delay after sustaining a muscle injury during training. The 25-year-old suffered damage to the long adductor muscle in his left thigh and will miss Sevilla’s upcoming La Liga clash against Girona. “Akor is currently undergoing treatment and will not feature until fully recovered,” confirmed Sevilla in a recent medical update.
Adams’ injury comes at an inopportune time, truncating his hopes of making a mark in Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers scheduled for early September. His initial call-up to the national team marked a milestone but, unfortunately, the muscle setback means he will now focus on rehabilitation, sidelining him during matches crucial for Nigeria’s campaign.
Meanwhile, Stanley Nwabali, Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, also faces uncertainty following a troubling injury. The 29-year-old was stretchered off after just 35 minutes during Chippa United’s recent league match in South Africa, causing fears that he may be unavailable for selection. Nwabali has been a steady presence since his breakthrough performance in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where he helped Nigeria reach the final. His absence would push Coach Chelle to rely on less experienced goalkeepers like Amas Obasogie, Adebayo Adeleye, or young talent Ebenezer Harcourt.
Nigeria’s qualification hopes are hanging by a thread as the team languishes fourth in Group C with only seven points from six games, trailing leaders South Africa by six points. Victory in the home game against Rwanda on 3 September, followed by a strong showing away in South Africa, is now more critical than ever.
Despite the double blow, Chelle can take consolation in the striking options still available, including Victor Osimhen, Tolu Arokodare, and Terem Moffi, who remain pivotal in Nigeria’s quest for the 2026 World Cup finals in North America.
