Nathan Tella will miss Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup playoff games due to a knee injury, leaving Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle to adjust his attack options

Bayer Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella will miss the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff matches with the Super Eagles due to a lingering knee injury.

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Nigeria will face Gabon in the semifinals, with a potential clash against the winner of DR Congo vs. Cameroon to follow.

Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand confirmed that Tella’s knee issue is more complicated than initially expected, and the winger will need extra recovery time during the international break.

While his absence reduces attacking options for Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle, the team still has key forwards like Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon ready for duty.

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Tella will aim to recover quickly and return to action for his club, ensuring he can rejoin the national team in the future.