Nigeria’s preparations for next month’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon have been dealt a major blow, with striker Terem Moffi and defender Semi Ajayi both ruled out of the fixture.
The Super Eagles, despite thrashing Benin Republic 4–0 in Uyo, failed to secure automatic qualification for the World Cup. They will now compete in the playoffs alongside Cameroon, DR Congo, and Gabon for a chance to reach the intercontinental playoffs — the final gateway to the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
According to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Nigeria will face Gabon on November 13 in Morocco, while Cameroon take on DR Congo on the same day. The winners of both fixtures will clash three days later, on November 16, to determine Africa’s representative in the intercontinental playoff round.
Ajayi Suspended for Key Encounter
Hull City defender Semi Ajayi will miss the first leg against Gabon after receiving a second yellow card during the victory over Benin, triggering an automatic one-match suspension.
Head coach Eric Chelle is, however, expected to retain Ajayi in the squad, hoping Nigeria advances to the next round where the centre-back could return for a possible clash against Cameroon or DR Congo.
In another setback, Terem Moffi has been sidelined with a calf injury shortly after rejoining his French club, OGC Nice, from international duty. The forward, who came off the bench against Benin, reportedly sustained the injury during a light training session on Thursday.
“Terem was injured this morning during his first session since returning from Nigeria duty. It was a light session, but he felt pain in his calf,” Nice manager Franck Haise told France Bleu, as quoted by Rotowire. “He will likely be out for several weeks. We’ll know more after further assessments.”
The injury is another setback for Moffi, who had just returned to full fitness after a lengthy spell on the sidelines last season. His absence leaves room for Kevin Omoruyi and Jeremie Boga to feature more prominently at Nice.
With Moffi unavailable, Chelle may need to adjust his attacking setup. Forwards Paul Onuachu, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Gift Orban, all in strong form for their respective clubs, could be called upon to fill the gap.
As Nigeria prepares for the decisive encounter, the double absence of Ajayi and Moffi represents an early test of depth and resilience — one that could shape their road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
