Onyemaechi welcomes child, set to miss Super Eagles vs Jordan clash

Bruno Onyemaechi is expected to miss Nigeria’s upcoming international friendly against Jordan after welcoming his first child with partner Ines Fontes.

The Super Eagles defender confirmed the news over the weekend, sharing photos from the hospital and describing the birth as the “best gift ever.” The development explains his absence from the team’s recent training session following their 2-1 victory over Iran.

Personal milestone confirmed

Onyemaechi and Fontes, who have been together since 2022, announced the arrival of their child via social media.

The couple had earlier revealed the pregnancy in March, with Fontes regularly seen supporting the defender during his time at Boavista.

The 26-year-old briefly stepped away from national team duties to be present for the birth, a decision in line with standard practice for players in similar situations.

Impact on Nigeria squad

With Nigeria preparing to face Jordan, Onyemaechi’s availability remains uncertain. However, sources indicate he is unlikely to return in time for the fixture, given the short turnaround and personal circumstances.

Head coach Eric Chelle is expected to adjust his lineup accordingly, with Zaidu Sanusi the leading option to fill the left-back role ahead of the Tuesday clash.

Sanusi brings experience and attacking threat, though with a different profile compared to Onyemaechi’s defensive stability.