Nathan Tella has been ruled out of Nigeria’s squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers due to injury. The Nigerian Football Federation confirmed his absence but didn’t disclose details. Bayer Leverkusen’s winger will be replaced by Jordan Torunarigha as the Super Eagles face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in must-win matches.
Bayer Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella has been withdrawn from Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers due to injury. The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) confirmed his absence on Thursday via the team’s official X (formerly Twitter) page, though the specifics of his injury were not disclosed.
Tella, who switched his international allegiance from England to Nigeria in 2023, was initially called up for the World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Zimbabwe but later found himself omitted from subsequent selections. Determined to regain his place, the forward had pledged to improve his performances. However, his latest injury setback means he will miss the crucial fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
In his absence, Super Eagles coach Finidi George has called up Jordan Torunarigha, a Belgium-based defender who made his national team debut in a 3-2 friendly victory over Mozambique in 2024.
Nigeria, currently struggling in Group C with just three points from four games, faces a must-win scenario in the upcoming matches. The Super Eagles will take on Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 before hosting Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo four days later. With qualification hopes hanging by a thread, the team will need to deliver standout performances to keep their 2026 World Cup dreams alive.
