The Nigerian Super Eagles’ preparations for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana have hit a major roadblock as an ongoing labor strike has stopped five key players from joining the team’s camp in Uyo.
While 15 players are already on the ground and training under Head Coach Finidi George, the absence of Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, Frank Onyeka, and Paul Onuachu has disrupted the squad’s buildup for the high-stakes encounter.
The quintet, based in different parts of the country, were expected to link up with their teammates earlier but have been stranded due to the labor action, which has crippled transportation services nationwide.
A total of 15 players trained on Monday morning in Uyo, with Head Coach Finidi George telling the players afterwards that the three points at stake in Friday’s encounter must end up in Nigeria’s kitty.
While the quintet (three in Abuja and two in Lagos) is being expected at the team’s Ibom Hotel and Resorts, the trio of midfielder Alex Iwobi, goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and forward Ademola Lookman are expected to arrive in the country on Tuesday.
There was no training session on Monday evening, as the players get countenance intensive sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, hopefully with a full house.
The delegation of Bafana Bafana is expected to arrive in Nigeria on Wednesday, with the team already booked into Four Points By Sheraton Hotel in Ikot-Ekpene.
With time running out before the crunch clash, the Super Eagles coaching staff is faced with the difficult task of preparing the team without five of their key personnel. Their absence could significantly impact Nigeria’s chances of securing a vital victory and taking a step towards qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
