Super Eagles injury update vs Jordan: Why Eric Chelle won’t replace Ajayi, Onyemaechi

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has decided not to call up replacements for injured defenders Semi Ajayi and Bruno Onyemaechi ahead of the team’s final game in the four-nation tournament, Afrik-Foot reports.

The three-time African champions will trade tackles with World Cup debutants Jordan on Tuesday at the Corendon Airlines Park in Antalya without Ajayi and Onyemaechi.

Both players have left Nigeria’s training camp in Antalya after the 2-1 win over Iran on Friday. Ajayi started the match but was taken off in the second half, with Emmanuel Fernandez coming on to make his debut. Onyemaechi, meanwhile, played the full game.

Ajayi missed the team’s next training session and was later allowed to leave camp for personal reasons. Onyemaechi also departed after the birth of his child. Despite losing two defensive options, Chelle has chosen to continue with the players already in camp instead of calling for reinforcements.

The decision shows the coach’s confidence in the depth of his squad. Players like Fernandez, who impressed on his debut, are now expected to step up as Nigeria prepare for their next test. Trabzonspor defender Chibuike Nwaiwu could also step in if needed, with Slavia Prague centre-back Igoh Ogbu likely to retain his spot in the starting lineup.

Super Eagles vs Jordan: What the final round looks like

Nigeria now turn their attention to a decisive match against Jordan, which will determine the outcome of the tournament.

The Super Eagles come into the game in strong form after their win over Iran. Goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams secured the victory, although Mehdi Taremi scored late to reduce the margin.

Jordan, on the other hand, drew 2-2 with Costa Rica in their opening match. They took the lead twice through Baha’ Faisal and Ibrahim Saadeh, but conceded two late goals including an equaliser in stoppage time.

The situation is simple for Nigeria. A win over Jordan will guarantee them the tournament title, regardless of what happens in the other match between Costa Rica and Iran. That gives Chelle’s side full control of their destiny heading into the final round.

Nigeria are clear favourites on paper. They are ranked 26th in the world, well ahead of Jordan, who sit 64th. But Chelle will be careful not to underestimate the opposition, especially after Jordan showed resilience in their opening game.

The Super Eagles are also carrying strong momentum. Since Chelle took charge, the team has gone 19 matches unbeaten, scoring 37 goals and conceding just 14. That run includes an impressive campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where they scored freely and eventually finished third.