Nigeria's slim hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup have taken another blow with an injury to a key midfielder

Nigeria’s preparations for October’s World Cup qualifiers have been dealt a huge setback after Raphael Onyedika limped off with a hamstring injury during Club Brugge’s league match against Westerlo.

The midfielder’s blow comes just days after Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was also sidelined, leaving the Super Eagles’ midfield depth in serious doubt.

Onyedika adds to injury concerns

Onyedika’s evening ended after only 15 minutes when he pulled up while chasing a long ball, immediately signalling for medical attention.

The 24-year-old required assistance to leave the pitch, a worrying sight for both Brugge and Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

His injury is particularly untimely, given his impressive form this season, where he has been central to Brugge’s domestic and European campaigns.

Just last week, he starred in their Champions League demolition of Monaco, scoring in the emphatic 4-1 win.

Losing him, even temporarily, could disrupt Brugge’s rhythm and rob Nigeria of a vital midfield presence.

Double setback for Nigeria

The timing could not be worse for the Super Eagles, who already lost Lazio’s Fisayo Dele-Bashiru to a muscle injury sustained in the Derby della Capitale last weekend.

Dele-Bashiru has been ruled out for around a month, leaving him unavailable for October’s qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin Republic.

With both players sidelined, Nigeria coach Eric Chelle faces a midfield crisis ahead of must-win fixtures to save the Super Eagles’ World Cup hopes.

Onyedika’s defensive grit and Dele-Bashiru’s creativity could have bolstered Nigeria’s midfield, but their absence may force tactical reshuffling and reliance on other options as the Super Eagles chase crucial World Cup qualification points.