Iheanacho Becomes Eighth Super Eagles Star Ruled Out of CAF World Cup Playoff

Iheanacho Becomes Eighth Super Eagles Star Ruled Out of CAF World Cup Playoff

By BSN Sports 

Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff against Gabon have been dealt another blow, with Celtic striker Kelechi Iheanacho ruled out due to injury, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has delayed the official announcement of his squad because of ongoing European club commitments, but sources indicate that Iheanacho will not make the list.

The 28-year-old forward is the eighth Nigerian player confirmed unavailable for the decisive clash in Morocco’s November international window. He joins Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Cyriel Dessers, Felix Agu, Ola Aina, Igoh Ogbu, Semi Ajayi, and Nathan Tella on the growing injury list.

Iheanacho has been in fine form for Celtic following his summer move from Sevilla but continues to battle a persistent hamstring problem. The former Manchester City forward was also absent from Nigeria’s previous World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin Republic.

His last appearance for the national team came in May, when he featured as a substitute in the Unity Cup friendly against Jamaica. Celtic manager Martin O’Neill confirmed earlier this week that the striker did not travel with the squad to Denmark for the Europa League tie against FC Midtjylland due to the same injury.

Despite the setbacks, there is some positive news for the Super Eagles. Samuel Chukwueze has returned to full fitness, impressing off the bench in Fulham’s 3–0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers, while Chidozie Awaziem passed a late fitness test to feature for Nantes against Metz in Ligue 1.

Chelle is expected to announce his final squad later this week after reviewing the performances and fitness levels of players involved in midweek European matches.