2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Moses Simon doubtful for Rwanda, Zimbabwe games

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Moses Simon’s participation in Nigeria’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe is uncertain due to an ankle injury.

The 29-year-old winger missed three days of training this week, raising concerns for both his club, Nantes, and the Super Eagles.

Nantes manager Antoine Kamboure confirmed that Simon has been sidelined with ankle pain, limiting his training to gym sessions.

He completed a training session on Thursday but his participation in the weekend’s clash against Lille is also in doubt.

“He hasn’t trained all week,” Kamboure stated, “He stayed in the gym Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, but he completed the session today.

“His ankle is still hurting. There’s obviously some concern. We’re managing it, but for him, it’s complicated.”

The Super Eagles are scheduled to face Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali next Friday and then host Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday, March 25.

Simon’s absence would be a significant blow for the Nigerian team as they strive to secure a place in the 2026 World Cup.

Earlier, Gent defender Jordan Torunarigha was called up to replace injured Bayer Leverkusen forward Nathan Tella for the two-legged clash.

Torunarigha recently switched allegiance to Nigeria after representing Germany at youth level.