…Osimhen and Iheanacho Absent from Lineup
Nigeria’s Super Eagles are gearing up to face the Mambas of Mozambique in a friendly match this afternoon. This game marks their second appearance in just four days, part of their preparations for the upcoming FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the Afcon tournament scheduled for January 2024 in Ivory Coast.
On Friday, Nigeria played to an intense two-all draw against Saudi Arabia’s Green Falcons. Saudi Arabia benefited from a goalkeeping error by Francis Uzoho and a deflected free kick for their goals, while an own goal and a stunning strike by Kelechi Iheanacho secured the draw.
As they approach today’s encounter, the Super Eagles will be without Victor Osimhen, the Napoli striker from Italy, due to a hamstring injury he sustained during the Saudi Arabia match. Additionally, Kelechi Iheanacho left the team’s camp on Saturday for personal reasons.
The Super Eagles have a strong record against Mozambique, having never lost to the Mambas in their four previous meetings – claiming three victories and one draw. Mozambique had a 1-1 draw against Angola’s Palancas Negras last Friday. The game will be held at the Estadio Municipal de Portimão and kicks off at 4 pm Nigerian time.
FIFA has also confirmed the match officials for this encounter. Miguel Nogueira from Portugal will take on the role of match referee, while his compatriots Paulo Bras, Ana Loide, and Bruno Viera will serve as assistant referee 1, assistant referee 2, and fourth official, respectively.
