Boniface, who recently saw a move to AC Milan collapse after failing a medical check, has struggled with multiple injuries, including cruciate ligament and muscular issues, limiting his recent appearances. Despite returning to Bayer Leverkusen training, he has been excluded from the squad, leaving Chelle with Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, and Samuel Chukwueze as forward options.

In more positive news, first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has been declared fit after sustaining an injury during a South African league match. Nwabali, who has been impressive since taking over as Nigeria’s number one at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, will feature in the squad alongside veteran players such as William Troost-Ekong, Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Osimhen.

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The Super Eagles sit fourth in Group C, six points behind South Africa, and must secure maximum points from the double-header to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

Source: Punch