World Cup qualifiers: Nigeria face anxious wait over Super Eagles captain ahead of Rwanda, South Africa games

Nigeria’s preparations for September’s World Cup qualifiers have been dealt another serious blow with captain Ahmed Musa emerging as a major doubt for the crucial fixtures against Rwanda and South Africa, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Super Eagles are set to host Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on 6 September before travelling to Bloemfontein three days later for a potentially decisive meeting with Bafana Bafana.

With both matches carrying significant weight in the qualification race, the absence of the country’s most senior player would be a setback.

Musa picked up an injury during Kano Pillars’ clash with Plateau United in the final of the Gusau Ahlan Preseason Tournament on Friday.

The 32-year-old forward lasted just 14 minutes before being withdrawn, sparking concerns about his fitness. Pillars eventually won the game on penalties after a goalless draw.

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The timing is particularly cruel for Musa, who had only recently worked his way back into the national set-up.

After being overlooked throughout 2024 by Finidi George and Augustine Eguavoen, the veteran winger was recalled by current coach Eric Chelle for the Unity Cup in London earlier this year, where he featured in the 2-1 victory over Ghana.

Watch as Chiedozie Jude Okorie rises high to power in a sumptuous header from Ahmed Musa’s pinpoint cross, giving us the lead against Wikki Tourists of Bauchi.

Sai Masu Gida! pic.twitter.com/QizxpdQOzx

— Kano Pillars FC (@pillarsfc) August 13, 2025

Before the setback, Musa had been in impressive form for Kano Pillars. He scored and assisted in a 2-0 semi-final win over Wikki Tourists and was named Man of the Match.

Watch our second goal against Wikki Tourists calmly converted from the spot by Ahmed Musa.

Sai Masu Gida! pic.twitter.com/LxYHGVo73Q

— Kano Pillars FC (@pillarsfc) August 14, 2025

Just days earlier, he was instrumental in a 3-0 victory against Katsina United. His dual role as both club captain and General Manager had further emphasised his influence in Kano.

Should Musa fail to recover in time, Chelle will have to turn to other attacking options.

Victor Osimhen continues to thrive in Turkey, Paul Onuachu has rediscovered his scoring touch, Tolu Arokodare is enjoying a fine spell at KRC Genk, while Victor Boniface remains a central figure at Bayer Leverkusen.

Even with such firepower, Musa’s absence would be felt. Beyond his on-pitch contributions, the veteran provides invaluable leadership to a squad still blending youthful exuberance with international experience.

Musa’s injury concerns add to a growing worry for Chelle who could be without Hull City defender Semi Ajayi and Rangers forward Cyriel Dessers for the the World Cup qualifiers.

Nigerian defender William Troost-Ekong usually shoulders the responsibility as Super Eagles captain whenever Musa is unavailable. 

For now, Nigeria await updates on the fitness of their skipper ahead of two matches that could shape their World Cup destiny.