Nigeria Unity Cup Injury Doubt as six Super Eagles players face fitness concerns ahead of their semi-final clash with Zimbabwe in London
Nigeria national football team could be without up to six players when they face Zimbabwe in the semi-final of the 2026 Unity Cup at The Valley in London on Tuesday, raising concerns ahead of a crucial knockout fixture.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi is among the key players facing fitness uncertainty, alongside Moses Simon and Akor Adams, as several members of the squad arrived late to camp in London.
Others listed as doubtful include Bruno Onyemaechi, Raphael Onyedika and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, leaving head coach Éric Chelle with limited selection options ahead of the match.
Only 20 players were available for selection during Monday evening’s training session, though midfielder Samson Tijani has boosted squad numbers after reporting for duty.
Tijani’s return marks his first involvement with the national team in six years, having last featured in October 2020 during a friendly against Algeria.
Nigeria will begin their Unity Cup title defence against Zimbabwe at 7:30 p.m. later today, with the winner advancing to the final scheduled for May 30 at Charlton Athletic’s stadium.
The second semi-final between Jamaica and India will take place a day later, completing the lineup for the tournament decider.
Recent meetings between Nigeria and Zimbabwe suggest a closely contested encounter, with both sides drawing their last two World Cup qualifying fixtures 1-1.
Nigeria’s recent form also indicates a tight contest, with three of their last four matches ending in draws within 90 minutes.
Zimbabwe, however, enter the clash in strong form, having won their last three friendly matches and remaining unbeaten since November 2025.
