Osimhen, Lookman, Ajayi, Nwabali Face Suspension At Knockout Stage

Osimhen, Lookman, Ajayi, Nwabali Face Suspension At Knockout Stage

By Admin 

Four members of Nigeria’s Super Eagles squad are one booking away from suspension as they prepare for Tuesday’s AFCON 2025 Group C encounter against Uganda, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Semi Ajayi and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali are all walking a disciplinary tightrope after accumulating yellow cards in Nigeria’s first two group matches.

Three of the cautions were issued during the Super Eagles’ victory over Tunisia on December 27, while the fourth was picked up in the opening group match against Tanzania. Under tournament regulations, any player who receives two yellow cards in the group stage will be suspended for the Round of 16.

Osimhen, Nigeria’s leading striker, was booked after scoring the opening goal against Tunisia for gesturing towards the opposition bench. A further caution against Uganda would rule him out of the knockout stage, potentially forcing head coach Eric Chelle to consider resting the Napoli forward and handing a starting role to Paul Onuachu.

Ademola Lookman, who has found the net in both of Nigeria’s group matches, was booked against Tanzania and also faces suspension if cautioned again.

Defender Semi Ajayi received a yellow card in the 56th minute against Tunisia for a cynical foul and is similarly at risk. His situation could prompt Chelle to explore alternative defensive options, including the possible deployment of Zaidu Sanusi.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was cautioned for time-wasting in the Tunisia match. Another booking would see him miss Nigeria’s first knockout fixture, with Francis Uzoho available as cover if required.

With qualification at stake and the knockout rounds approaching, the Super Eagles coaching staff will be weighing tactical decisions carefully to avoid losing key players to suspension.