Super Eagles striker Terem Moffi faces AFCON uncertainty after hamstring blow

With just four weeks remaining until the kick-off of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, Super Eagles striker Terem Moffi is facing an uncertain future as he grapples with a hamstring injury.

The setback occurred just hours before his club OGC Nice took on Le Havre in a French Ligue One clash on Saturday, December 16, 2023, leading to Moffi’s absence and a subsequent 3-1 defeat for the team.

Moffi has been a key player for Nice throughout the current season, featuring in all 15 Ligue 1 games and contributing four goals and two assists.

The 24-year-old striker’s injury comes at a crucial juncture as Nigeria prepares for AFCON, scheduled to begin on January 13.

The severity of Moffi’s hamstring injury is yet to be disclosed by Nice, leaving a cloud of uncertainty over his potential participation in the upcoming African showpiece.

Typically, hamstring injuries require a recovery period of three to eight weeks, and if Moffi follows a standard healing timeline, he may miss the AFCON.

Considering the tight schedule, Nigeria’s manager, Peseiro, faces a challenging decision on Moffi’s replacement.

Complicating matters, Nottingham Forest striker, Taiwo Awoniyi has already been ruled out due to a groin injury, leaving a void in the striking department.

Peseiro, therefore, may turn to alternative options such as Gift Orban, Paul Onuachu, or Akor Adams to fill the potential void left by Moffi.

The manager’s hopes now hinge on the fitness of Napoli star Victor Osimhen, as an injury to Osimhen could further impact Nigeria’s chances in the tournament.

With Sadiq Umar already securing a place in the squad, Peseiro must carefully navigate the selection process to assemble a formidable team for the AFCON, taking into account the uncertainties surrounding key players like Moffi.

The coming weeks will be crucial as the Super Eagles aim to overcome these challenges and present a strong and competitive squad for the continental tournament.

Already, Nigeria’s Provisional squad for the tournament has been submitted to CAF, with the final list expected by January 3, 2024.