Super Eagles’ AFCON 2023 squad update: Terem Moffi to step in for injured Victor Boniface

Victor Boniface has been ruled out of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament following an injury picked during Nigeria’s training

OGC Nice forward, Terem Moffi, is reportedly poised to step in for Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface, who has been ruled out of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations due to injury, Soccernet.ng reports.

Boniface sustained a muscle injury during training in Abu Dhabi, leading to his absence in Nigeria’s preparatory matches, including a 12-0 victory over a local club and a subsequent loss to Guinea.

Reports from Nigerian media outlets suggest that Moffi, previously omitted from Jose Peseiro’s final 25-man squad after being part of the initial 40-man provisional list, has been nominated as Boniface’s replacement. However, this move is pending approval from CAF and requires consent from his club.

While Boniface showcased his prowess with 16 goals and eight assists in 23 appearances for Leverkusen, Moffi, representing OGC Nice, has secured six goals and provided two assists in 16 appearances in Ligue 1.

Despite initially missing the final squad selection due to injury concerns, Moffi made a swift return, delivering impactful performances for his club.

At the international level, Moffi boasts four goals in 12 appearances for Nigeria, including a significant strike in Nigeria’s 3-2 friendly against Mozambique.

His anticipated role is expected to be crucial, supporting the main striker in Peseiro’s typical 4-4-1 formation.

Moffi’s inclusion serves as a potential boost for the Super Eagles, banking on his impressive form and previous contributions to the national team as they prepare for the AFCON campaign.