Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Nathan Tella has withdrawn from the Super Eagles squad ahead of Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers. The national team is set to face South Africa and Benin in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
In light of Tella’s withdrawal, Ibrahim Olawoyin of Caykur Rizespor in Turkey has been called up to join the squad.
“WCQ Camp Update: Nathan Tella of Bayer Leverkusen has excused himself from the upcoming WCQ matches due to family reasons. Coach Finidi George has now called up Ibrahim Olawoyin of Caykur Rizespor of Turkey,” announced the national team on its X account.
The Super Eagles camp for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin will open on Monday, . Nigeria will play against South Africa at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday, June 7, before traveling to Ivory Coast to face Benin on Monday, June 10.
Despite earlier speculations about the camp opening over the weekend, Ademola Olajire, Director of Media and Communications of the Nigeria Football Federation, confirmed the Monday opening date.
“Monday, June 3,” Olajire confirmed in response to inquiries from PUNCH.
