The Super Eagles have called up Taiwo Awoniyi to replace injured Victor Osimhen in Nigeria’s squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Osimhen has been ruled out after failing to recover from a muscle injury, forcing the coaching crew to make a late change ahead of the two qualifying matches.
Awoniyi returns to the national team for the first time in almost two years. His last appearance came in October 2024 when Nigeria defeated Libya 1-0 in an AFCON qualifying match.
The Coventry City striker now has another opportunity to revive his international career after missing the 2025 AFCON tournament and the Super Eagles’ recent friendly games.
The 29-year-old has already made an encouraging start to the new season with Coventry. He also scored in the club’s 4-2 League Cup victory over Plymouth Argyle in August.
Awoniyi is expected to compete for a place in Coach Eric Chelle’s attack as the Super Eagles begin their journey to qualify for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria will host Madagascar in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau four days later in their second qualifying match.