Nigeria boss Eric Chelle says injury ruled George Ilenikhena out of Tanzania fixtures

Nigeria manager Eric Chelle has revealed that Al-Ittihad striker George Ilenikhena was left out of the squad because he is injured, after facing strong criticism from supporters.

Nigeria are preparing to play Tanzania twice, on Friday and next Tuesday, in the third and fourth rounds of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Chelle named a 24-man squad for the two matches, but Ilenikhena was not included despite his impressive form for Al-Ittihad. His omission sparked anger among Nigerian fans, prompting the manager to address the issue before the first meeting with Tanzania in comments reported by Nigerian publication Africa Foot.

“I am surprised. As you know, I am not active on social media, but some people send me many things,” Chelle said. “I am surprised that there are no questions about the group and the players.”

He added: “Once again, if you have something to say to me, you can come directly to me, and if I want to give you an answer, I will.”

Chelle then explained why Ilenikhena was absent.

“For example, I have seen many people talking about why George Ilenikhena is not here. Do you know that he is injured? Some of you did not know that before. I think everyone needs to stay calm,” he said.

Ilenikhena has made 15 appearances for Al-Ittihad in all competitions this season, scoring eight goals and providing three assists.

Those performances earned him his first Nigeria call-up last September. He marked his debut with a goal against Madagascar in qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

The 19-year-old has become Al-Ittihad’s first-choice striker this season, ahead of Morocco international Youssef En-Nesyri, under German manager Jens Vising. That represents a change from last season, when he was not part of Portuguese manager Francisco Trincao’s plans.

Ilenikhena joined Al-Ittihad during the previous winter transfer window from Monaco. However, he played only six matches during the second half of last season and did not score.

Nigeria sit second in Group 12 of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with three points. They earned those points from a single victory over Madagascar, while their other result was a defeat by Guinea-Bissau, who currently lead the group with seven points.

The Super Eagles are seeking victories in both matches against Tanzania to move closer to qualification. Their prospects would improve further if Guinea-Bissau beat third-placed Madagascar in the fourth round. Madagascar currently have two points.