The left-back has been a favorite of manager Jose Peceiro since making his international debut earlier this year
Boavista’s Bruno Onyemaechi faces uncertainty in Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign after sustaining an injury during Boavista’s 3-1 loss to Farense on Sunday, Soccernet.ng reports. Ta.
The left-back was substituted in the 56th minute, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming matches against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.
Onyemaechi has been a regular in the Super Eagles’ recent matches, so his absence will be a big setback for the team.
Cardiff City’s Jamil Collins has joined the squad as an alternative left-back, while Porto defender Zaidu Sanusi could be called up as a late substitute.
Fulham star Calvin Bassey also played as a left-back for the Super Eagles before moving to central defence. Nottingham Forest star Ola Aina has proven at the club that he too can play the role.
In addition to Onyemaechi’s injury, Nigeria will also be without key players Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze and Wilfred Ndidi, all of whom are sidelined due to injury.
Their absence will further complicate the team dynamics ahead of the crucial World Cup qualifiers.
The Super Eagles host Lesotho in Uyo on Thursday before traveling to Rwanda to take on Zimbabwe three days later.
Nigeria’s group includes South Africa, Rwanda and Benin Republic, with only the top teams guaranteed a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
