Nigeria face Guinea-Bissau fitness concern over Madagascar match-winner Ilenikhena

Nigeria could be without one or two players for Tuesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Guinea-Bissau, coach Eric Chelle has indicated.

The three-time African champions began their campaign with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar in Uyo and now face the Djurtus in their second Group L match.

Victory would be important for Nigeria as they attempt to move to the top of the group. They are currently second, behind Guinea-Bissau on goal difference, after their opponents opened their campaign with a 2-0 win in Tanzania.

Only one team will qualify from Group L because Tanzania, one of the tournament’s co-hosts, already has a place at the finals. That increases the importance of Nigeria making a strong start to the qualifying campaign.

Guinea-Bissau will have home advantage on Tuesday and possess several players capable of troubling the Super Eagles. Chelle has already had to prepare for the qualifiers without Victor Osimhen, who is recovering from a muscle injury.

Two players receiving their first call-ups, George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, scored Nigeria’s goals against Madagascar. However, Ilenikhena is now a doubt for the meeting with Guinea-Bissau.

Ilenikhena fitness to be assessed

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Chelle said Ilenikhena would need to be assessed during Nigeria’s final training session before a decision could be made on his availability.

The Al-Ittihad forward may require further checks, while his playing time could be limited depending on his condition. His absence would be a significant setback for Nigeria after he made an impressive debut against Madagascar.

Ilenikhena appeared confident and energetic in that match, scoring Nigeria’s opening goal and providing an important attacking threat in the 2-1 win.

If the former Monaco forward is ruled out, the situation could give Tolu Arokodare and Taiwo Awoniyi an opportunity to impress Chelle. Arokodare plays for Ajax, while Awoniyi represents Coventry City.

Chelle is expected to make a final decision on Ilenikhena on matchday, with Nigeria hoping the forward will be cleared to feature in their attempt to claim first place in Group L.