Moses Usor injury puts Nigeria’s AFCON 2027 qualifier plans at risk

Moses Usor is facing a race against time to recover from a shoulder injury before Nigeria’s AFCON 2027 qualifying fixtures against Tanzania in November.

The 24-year-old forward announced himself on the international stage by scoring the winning goal in Nigeria’s 2-1 victory over Madagascar. On his senior debut, Usor produced a solo effort that secured all three points for the Super Eagles in their opening qualifier.

He was unable to find the net in Nigeria’s next match, a 3-0 defeat by Guinea-Bissau, but his overall contribution was enough to keep him in contention for the national team’s squad for the forthcoming games against Tanzania.

His involvement is now in doubt after the injury ruled him out of LASK’s recent 6-3 defeat by Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League. The problem is not expected to require surgery, but his chances of playing will depend on the pace and success of his rehabilitation over the coming days.

That timetable could overlap with Nigeria’s meeting with Tanzania in Uyo next month, adding to uncertainty over whether Usor will be available for the important qualification fixture.

The Super Eagles coaching staff are monitoring his condition closely. Usor’s ability to operate in different attacking roles, combined with his direct style, had been viewed as an important part of Nigeria’s plans for the November international window.

LASK’s medical team are managing his recovery while avoiding an early return that could worsen the shoulder problem. The club’s priority is to restore him to full fitness without exposing him to the risk of further aggravation.

Usor’s absence would leave Nigeria without a forward who made an immediate impact during his first appearance for the national side. The Super Eagles will therefore wait for further updates before determining whether he can join the squad and feature in Uyo.

Nigeria are hoping he can secure medical clearance in time to play a part as they pursue consecutive victories in their ongoing AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign.