Raphael Onyedika, the defensive midfield anchor for Club Brugge, could be missing when the Super Eagles take the field for their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, after picking up a hamstring injury in recent club action.
How It Happened
During a Belgian Pro League game against Westerlo, Onyedika was forced off just 16 minutes into the match, clutching his hamstring. Earlier, he had also left a match against Standard Liège in the 23rd minute owing to an injury. The injury against Westerlo has raised fresh concerns.
What Onyedika’s Injury Means for the Super Eagles
Raphael Onyedika’s injury comes at a challenging time for the Super Eagles, and could have wider implications for Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
Midfield Woes for Chelle
With Onyedika potentially ruled out, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle now faces a major selection headache in central midfield. Already dealing with concerns around Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who is also nursing an injury, Chelle’s options for the crucial defensive midfield role are thinning fast. Onyedika’s absence would deprive Nigeria of a player known for his composure on the ball and ability to break up play.
Who Steps Up?
In the event Onyedika is unavailable, Chelle may be forced to turn to more experienced heads such as Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Frank Onyeka. However, fitness levels and current club form will weigh heavily on those choices, especially with the qualifiers coming up fast.
Must-Win Games on the Horizon
The timing couldn’t be more critical. Nigeria are set to face Lesotho and Benin Republic in back-to-back qualifiers fixtures widely seen as must-wins to establish early dominance in Group C. With the expanded 48-team format for the 2026 World Cup, early slip-ups could complicate Nigeria’s qualification path. A weakened midfield could expose defensive gaps or limit the team’s ability to control games.
Uncertain Recovery Timeline
As of now, Club Brugge have not provided a clear recovery timeline for Onyedika. The lack of medical clarity makes it difficult for Chelle and his technical team to plan decisively, especially as they prepare to announce the squad list for the next international window.
Next Steps to Watch
 Confirmation of Onyedika’s fitness or withdrawal from Chelle’s squad announcement.
 Views or statements from Club Brugge’s medical staff about severity of injury.
 How Coach Chelle adjusts tactics or squads – whether he uses more defensively minded midfielders or reshapes formation.
Raphael Onyedika has become a key piece in Brugge’s setup, known for breaking up play and offering defensive cover. His potential absence is not just a club issue; it could shape how Nigeria begins its road to the 2026 World Cup.
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