The Digest:
Bayer Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella has been confirmed unavailable for November’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup play-off against Gabon. The Super Eagles attacker continues to struggle with a knee injury described by his club as “more difficult and complicated than first thought,” dealing a blow to coach Eric Chelle’s options ahead of the high-stakes qualifiers.
Key Points:
- Nathan Tella will miss Nigeria’s World Cup play-off due to a persistent knee injury.
- Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand confirmed the winger needs the international break to recover.
- The Super Eagles face Gabon in a semi-final play-off in November.
- A win would set up a final against either Cameroon or DR Congo.
- Tella’s absence limits attacking depth, but Nigeria still has Chukwueze, Lookman, and Simon.
- The injury has been more severe than initially diagnosed by the German club.
- Nigeria is pushing to return to the World Cup after missing the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
Sources: Soccernet
