Awoniyi returns to Super Eagles squad for AFCON 2027 qualifiers
Taiwo Awoniyi has been recalled to the Super Eagles squad as a replacement for Victor Osimhen ahead of Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Coventry City striker returns to the national team for the first time since 2024, after Osimhen was ruled out of the upcoming matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau while recovering from a muscle strain.
Stay updated: Set GistReel as a favorite source on Google to catch our stories first.
The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed Awoniyi’s inclusion in a statement on the Super Eagles’ official X account on Sunday.
Awoniyi earns recall after Coventry start
Awoniyi has made an encouraging start to life at Coventry following his move from Nottingham Forest, despite his recent dismissal in the Sky Blues’ 5-0 defeat by Brighton.
The 29-year-old made his Coventry debut against Arsenal before scoring and providing an assist in his first full start as Frank Lampard’s side progressed in the Carabao Cup.
His performances earned him starts against Hull City, Manchester City and Brighton in the Premier League.
Awoniyi’s red card against Brighton, however, means he will serve a three-match suspension for Coventry.
The striker has made 10 appearances for Nigeria since his international debut in 2021, scoring twice. His most recent appearance came in 2024, when he featured in the Super Eagles’ 1-0 victory over Libya.
Super Eagles begin AFCON qualifying campaign
Awoniyi will now join a Nigeria attack containing several options as the Super Eagles begin their campaign for a place at the 2027 AFCON.
Nigeria face Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to Guinea-Bissau for their second qualifier four days later.