Chelle Faces Fresh Injury Concern As Super Eagles Striker Suffers Setback

Chelle Faces Fresh Injury Concern As Super Eagles Striker Suffers Setback

By Admin 

Head coach of Nigeria’s national football team, Eric Chelle, has been handed a potential injury concern after Super Eagles striker Salim Fago Lawal was forced off during club duty for FC Viktoria Plzeň, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The 23-year-old forward started for Plzeň in their away fixture against FC Hradec Králové at Malšovická Aréna, playing a key role as his side dominated the early stages of the match.

Lawal opened the scoring in the 44th minute with an impressive display of pace and composure. The striker outran his marker to latch onto a long through-ball before calmly lobbing the advancing goalkeeper from outside the penalty area.

Plzeň eventually secured a comfortable 3–0 victory, with further goals coming from Cheick Souaré and Tomáš Ladra.

However, the afternoon ended on a worrying note for the Nigerian forward when he was substituted in the 63rd minute after appearing to pick up an injury. The exact nature and severity of the problem have not yet been confirmed.

The setback comes at an important stage in Lawal’s career. The young striker has recently seen his profile rise following his move from NK Istra 1961 and his introduction to the Super Eagles setup during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria national football team finished third.

Although Lawal played a limited role during the tournament, he is regarded as a promising option for Nigeria’s attacking future. He currently competes for places in the squad with established forwards such as Victor Osimhen, Paul Onuachu, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, and Akor Adams.

While his potential absence may not immediately disrupt Chelle’s attacking options, the Super Eagles coaching staff will be monitoring his condition closely. A prolonged spell on the sidelines could slow Lawal’s progress and delay his full integration into the national team setup.