Nigeria could soon have its full squad ready for the pivotal World Cup qualifying matches next month, as several injured regulars from the Super Eagles are nearing full recovery.
Ademola Lookman, the reigning African Player of the Year, has resumed training with Atalanta after overcoming his injury. He is anticipated to make his return just in time for Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe later this month.
The 27-year-old forward, who has netted 14 goals and assisted seven for Atalanta, missed the final group game of the UEFA Champions League at Barcelona last month due to a knee injury sustained in training.
In England, Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi is also making strides towards recovery after a long-term injury. A hamstring injury sustained during a match against Cardiff City sidelined him from participating in Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda in November.
Although initially expected to be out for four months, West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Mowbray noted that he would evaluate Ajayi’s fitness during an upcoming U-21 youth game.
