Replacements for Dessers, Osayi-Samuel as Super Eagles shuffle pack ahead of World Cup deciders

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has moved quickly to cover for injuries in his squad, naming replacements just days before camp opens for Nigeria’s final two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Lesotho.

FC Porto left-back Zaidu Sanusi returns to the fold as a direct replacement for Bright Osayi-Samuel, who has been ruled out after sustaining an injury during Birmingham City’s Championship clash with Sheffield Wednesday. The 27-year-old right-back was forced off in the 59th minute, with scans confirming he will not be fit in time for international duty.

Chelle has also called up Christantus Uchce of Crystal Palace to replace Cyriel Dessers, whose recovery from injury has not progressed as hoped. The Panathinaikos striker remains sidelined following a knock picked up in the Europa League tie against Young Boys nine days ago, and has missed consecutive training sessions in Athens.

Can injury-stricken Super Eagles still qualify?

The Super Eagles face an uphill task in their bid to reach the 2026 World Cup. Chelle’s men currently sit third in Group C on 11 points, three behind leaders Benin and South Africa, with only the group winners guaranteed automatic qualification.

Nigeria must first beat Lesotho away on 10 October and then overcome Benin in Uyo four days later to reach 17 points and keep their hopes alive. Anything less will end their qualification dream. Even with maximum points, the three-time African champions will still rely on one of their rivals slipping up.

Chelle’s challenge is now compounded by injuries, but with key names still available, the Super Eagles' fate will ultimately depend on how well they respond under pressure in the final two games.