Eric Chelle has made a surprising adjustment to Nigeria’s squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, replacing injured forward Nathan Tella with defender Joshua Torunarigha.
The unexpected switch comes just days before the crucial fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, raising questions about the Super Eagles’ tactical setup, Footballrover reports.
The decision follows concerns over Tella’s fitness after Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso revealed the winger was struggling with a muscular issue.
With Tella missing Leverkusen’s UEFA Champions League clash against Bayern Munich and remaining on the bench, Chelle has now opted for a defensive reinforcement instead of a like-for-like attacking replacement.
Nathan Tella’s injury blow forces late change
Nathan Tella had been named in Chelle’s final 23-man squad, expected to play a key role in Nigeria’s attack.
However, after monitoring his condition closely, the Super Eagles coach decided it was too risky to include the forward for the upcoming games.
Tella has been in strong form for Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen this season, contributing four goals and three assists in 32 appearances across all competitions.
His absence is a setback for Nigeria, who are desperate for attacking firepower as they look to climb from fifth place in Group C.
Joshua Torunarigha called up as replacement
Rather than replacing Tella with another forward, Chelle has opted for a defensive switch, calling up Gent’s Joshua Torunarigha.
The left-footed center-back has been solid in Belgium, and his inclusion suggests Nigeria may prioritise defensive stability in the upcoming matches.
The ex-Germany youth international earned his first cap for Nigeria in a 3-2 friendly victory against Mozambique in October 2023.
With this unexpected change, all eyes will be on Chelle’s tactical approach when the Super Eagles face Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 before returning to Uyo for a clash against Zimbabwe on March 25.
Will Nigeria cope without Tella’s attacking presence? The countdown to kickoff continues.
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