Nigeria have been hit by fitness concerns ahead of Tuesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Guinea-Bissau, with George Ilenikhena and Akor Adams facing a race against time after training separately from the Super Eagles squad.
The duo both started Friday’s 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar and their availability could influence Eric Chelle’s attacking plans for the crucial Group L encounter.
Ilenikhena was one of the standout performers against Madagascar, marking his senior international debut with a first-half stoppage-time equaliser after Ehsan Kari had given the visitors an early lead. Adams also started the game before being replaced by Moses Simon in the second half, while another debutant, Moses Usor, completed Nigeria’s comeback with a 65th-minute winner.
The latest concerns come at an important point for Chelle, who is already without Victor Osimhen for the opening qualifiers as the striker continues his recovery from injury. Taiwo Awoniyi was called up to replace Osimhen in the squad, meaning any further setback to Ilenikhena or Adams would leave the Super Eagles with another attacking selection issue.
Nigeria will face a Guinea-Bissau side that also opened its campaign with a victory, beating Tanzania 2-0. Both teams therefore have three points, although Guinea-Bissau currently sit above the Super Eagles on goal difference. With Tanzania already guaranteed a place at the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts, the remaining Group L teams are competing for the group’s qualification place.
The Super Eagles have travelled to Bissau ahead of Tuesday’s encounter and will complete their preparations with Chelle waiting for further assessment of Ilenikhena and Adams.
After Nigeria’s winning start in Uyo, the coach will be hoping both attackers are fit enough to give him more options as he looks to secure back-to-back victories in the qualifiers.
