2026 FIFA WCQ: Former Super Eagles Defender criticizes Eric Chelle for Taiwo Awoniyi omission

By Wale Mustapha

Former Nigeria international defender Samuel Elijah has criticized the omission of Taiwo Awoniyi from the Super Eagles’ squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda, calling it “unfair.”

Head coach Eric Chelle recently announced a list of 39 players for the two crucial qualifiers in Uyo and Kigali.

The squad includes notable names such as captain Ahmed Musa, Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman, and Umar Sadiq.

However, the surprise exclusion of Awoniyi has drawn the ire of Elijah, who believes the decision is unjustifiable given the striker’s longstanding presence in the national team and his contributions when called upon.

“It is not justified. Sincerely, to exclude Taiwo Awoniyi, who has been part of the team for a very long time, is unfair,” Elijah told media.

“He didn’t have the chance to express himself fully due to injuries, but whenever he was invited to play for his country, he made his mark.”

Elijah continued, “And how can you call up thirty-nine players without Taiwo Awoniyi, who has been part of the team for so long? To me, it is unfair.”

The Super Eagles are currently fourth in Group C with four points from four games as they seek to revive their World Cup qualification hopes.