Super Eagles get welcome boost ahead of World Cup qualifiers as midfielder makes timely return from injury

Nigeria have received a major lift ahead of next month’s World Cup qualifiers, with Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika fully returning from injury right on schedule.

The Club Brugge star had been sidelined for over a month, but his comeback arrives at exactly the moment both club and country need him most.

Onyedika’s hamstring setback kept him out for 37 days, stemming from the dramatic 5–5 draw against Westerlo in September, but he is now back in full training and wasted no time making an impact.

Named in the squad for Club Brugge’s clash with FCV Dender EH, he entered the match in the 63rd minute and helped Brugge secure a crucial 2-1 victory.

The win keeps the Belgian giants within touching distance of leaders Union Saint-Gilloise, just three points back, and extends their unbeaten run to seven matches in all competitions.

His return could not be more timely for Brugge, who are intensifying their push for the top spot, and with transfer chatter swirling around him in recent weeks, this comeback also helps settle questions over his readiness and fitness as the season enters a decisive stretch.

On the international front, Onyedika’s recovery arrives as a significant boost for Nigeria ahead of the CAF World Cup playoffs.

With the Super Eagles set to face Gabon on November 13, head coach Eric Chelle now has another trusted option in midfield. Nigeria’s route to the 2026 World Cup remains firmly on track, but every match counts, and having an in-form Onyedika available in such a crucial period is invaluable.

The timing also eases pressure on a midfield department that has been stretched, especially against physical and organised opponents like Gabon.

As qualification intensity rises and margins tighten, his return could make the difference in keeping the Super Eagles ahead in the race.