Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle must decide between current club form, international experience and tactical fit as Nigeria prepare for their 2027 AFCON qualifiers.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle faces a major selection dilemma ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign following Victor Osimhen’s injury.

Osimhen, Nigeria’s first-choice striker, is expected to spend around three weeks on the sidelines after suffering a groin injury on September 5. His absence could rule him out of Nigeria’s upcoming qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

With Osimhen unavailable and Paul Onuachu’s fitness also uncertain, Chelle has several options to consider for the crucial No. 9 position.

Among the leading contenders are Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams, Kelechi Iheanacho and Mërgim Berisha, with each forward offering different qualities and varying levels of international experience.

Arokodare’s Club Form

Tolu Arokodare appears to have a strong claim after making an impressive start to the season.

The Ajax loanee has scored five goals and provided two assists in seven appearances, underlining his current form in front of goal.

However, the striker’s international record remains relatively modest. Since making his Super Eagles debut in March 2025, Arokodare has scored twice in 10 appearances.

A strong performance in the upcoming qualifiers could give him an opportunity to establish himself as a more regular option in Nigeria’s attack.

Adams Offers Experience

Akor Adams could benefit from his greater international experience and his previous understanding with Osimhen.

The Venezia striker has scored six goals and registered two assists in 15 appearances for Nigeria, including two goals and two assists at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

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Adams also developed a promising partnership with Osimhen during the tournament, giving Chelle another reason to consider him as the temporary replacement for the injured striker.

Durosinmi Making His Case

Durosinmi has also strengthened his credentials with an impressive start at Genk.

The forward has scored four goals in five league appearances, demonstrating the kind of attacking form that could attract Chelle’s attention.

His recent performances could give him an opportunity to compete for a starting role, particularly if the coach opts for a striker in strong current form.

Iheanacho Provides Experience

Kelechi Iheanacho remains another experienced option despite falling out of the Super Eagles’ regular competitive plans in recent years.

The former Leicester City forward has not featured for Nigeria in a competitive match since the 2023 AFCON but has recently rediscovered his scoring touch with Turkish second-tier club Bursaspor.

Iheanacho has scored eight goals and provided two assists in six matches, giving Chelle another experienced attacking option at a time when Osimhen’s absence has created uncertainty.

Chelle’s Big Decision

Chelle’s decision will ultimately come down to what he values most: current club form, international experience or tactical compatibility.

Nigeria’s opening 2027 AFCON qualifier against Madagascar on September 25 will provide the first major test of the coach’s plans, with Guinea-Bissau scheduled to follow four days later.

For the forwards competing for the No. 9 role, the two matches represent an important opportunity to prove they can lead the Super Eagles’ attack in Osimhen’s absence.

With Nigeria aiming to make a strong start to their qualifying campaign, Chelle will have to find the right solution quickly.