Super Eagles vs Tanzania: 5 notable absentees from Chelle’s AFCON qualifying squad

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has released a 24-man squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying doubleheader against Tanzania, with several notable names missing from the list.

Nigeria will face the AFCON 2027 co-hosts in two crucial matches later this month as they look to improve their form and revive their qualification campaign in Group L.

The three-time African champions currently sit second in the group with three points, three behind leaders Guinea-Bissau, following their disappointing defeat in their previous outing and must now avoid further slip-ups to keep their hopes of reaching the tournament alive.

With only one qualifying spot available from the group alongside co-hosts Tanzania, Nigeria have little room for error in the remaining fixtures.

There had been plenty of speculation about the players who would make Chelle’s squad, but the Franco-Malian tactician has now made his final selections. However, his list has raised several questions, especially because of the absence of some important players.

While the likes of Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze and Femi Azeez are notable absentees due to injury concerns, several other players have been left out despite their recent performances and previous involvement with the national team.

Afrik-Foot looks at five notable players who will miss Nigeria’s upcoming AFCON qualifying matches against Tanzania.

Super Eagles vs Tanzania: 5 players who miss out on Eric Chelle’s squad

Chelle has included several established names in his 24-man list, including Stanley Nwabali, Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey. However, some players who were expected to feature have been overlooked.

Your #SuperEagles squad for November camp! 🦅🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/esvK2dsjus

— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) November 7, 2026

1. Kelechi Iheanacho

One of the biggest names missing from the 24-man squad is Bursaspor striker Kelechi Iheanacho, who has been enjoying an impressive run of form at club level.

The former Celtic forward scored on his return to the Super Eagles during Nigeria’s 3-3 draw against Russia in an international friendly last month. His performance and recent goalscoring form had raised expectations that he would earn another call-up, especially with Victor Osimhen unavailable through injury.

However, it is surprising that Chelle has decided to leave him out, especially considering Nigeria’s need for goals in the upcoming fixtures.

Iheanacho has scored 17 goals and provided four assists in 14 appearances, including an impressive run of 12 consecutive games in which he found the net.

Despite his form, the 29-year-old has not made the final squad. Instead, Chelle has opted for Taiwo Awoniyi, Tolu Arokodare and Akor Adams as his preferred centre-forward options.

2. Maduka Okoye

Another major absentee is Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, who has not been included despite his impressive performances in Serie A this season.

The former Watford goalkeeper has established himself as one of the standout performers in his position, making his omission very notable.

Okoye was previously involved with the national team and was expected to remain in contention for a place in Chelle’s squad.

However, the goalkeeper has been overlooked once again. His late arrival at the previous international camp due to club commitments had also raised questions about his availability and involvement with the team.

Although Udinese have struggled for consistency this season, Okoye’s individual performances have remained impressive.

3. Emmanuel Fernandez

Rangers defender Emmanuel Fernandez is another notable name missing from Chelle’s selection.

The defender had a slow start to the season but has gradually improved, with his growing understanding and partnership with Makhanya helping him regain his form.

Fernandez had also attracted attention following his introduction to the Super Eagles setup, and there were expectations that he could remain part of the national team picture.

However, Chelle has decided against including him in the 24-man squad for the Tanzania doubleheader.

His omission means the defender will have to continue working on his club performances if he hopes to earn another opportunity with the Super Eagles.

4. George Ilenikhena

Another surprising omission is young forward George Ilenikhena, who previously made a very strong impression during his involvement with the Super Eagles.

The youngster scored on his debut in Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over Madagascar and his impressive introduction to the national team had raised expectations that he would be considered for another call-up, especially with Osimhen ruled out through injury.

However, Ilenikhena has been left out of Chelle’s latest selection, despite the need for additional attacking options ahead of the two crucial fixtures.

5. Raphael Onyedika

Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Raphael Onyedika completes the list of notable absentees from Chelle’s 24-man squad.

The midfielder has been an important player at club level and has previously featured for the Super Eagles and his qualities could have been useful for Nigeria, especially in two matches where the team will be under pressure to secure maximum points.

However, Chelle has decided to look elsewhere, with Tochukwu Nnadi and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru among the midfielders included in the squad.

Nigeria will face Tanzania on November 13 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo before travelling to Dar es Salaam for the return fixture on November 17.

The Super Eagles will be hoping to secure maximum points from both matches as they look to revive their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign and strengthen their chances of reaching the tournament.