Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has a fresh injury concern to navigate as young striker Salim Fago Lawal was forced off while on duty for Viktoria Plzeň, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 23-year-old striker was named in the starting lineup for the trip to Malšovická Aréna to face Hradec Králové.
The former Czech champions entered the tie as heavy favorites and lived up to the billing with a dominant performance. They dominated the early exchanges but had to wait until the 44th minute when Salim Fago opened the scoring in the 44th minute.
It was a clinical finish from the Nigerian. Showing impressive pace, he outran his marker to reach a long through-ball before calmly lobbing the onrushing goalkeeper from outside the area. Viktoria Plzeň eventually secured a 3-0 victory with additional goals from Cheick Souaré and Tomáš Ladra.
However, the afternoon ended on a somber note for Lawal. He was substituted in the 63rd minute after appearing to struggle with an injury.
While the exact nature and extent of the injury are yet to be confirmed, the setback is a blow for a player whose stock has risen sharply over the last year following his move from Croatian side NK Istra.
Lawal recently broke into the Super Eagles setup, forming part of the squad that claimed bronze at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. A lengthy spell on the sidelines would be a significant hurdle as he looks to establish himself on the global stage.
Should Éric Chelle Be Worried About Salim Lawal’s Injury?
Salim Lawal jusy started his international career, having earned his maiden call-up for the recent AFCON, where he played a peripheral role.
Given the immense depth in the Super Eagles' attacking department, Lawal is expected to bide his time before becoming a regular fixture in the starting XI.
With established stars like Victor Osimhen, Paul Onuachu, Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, and Akor Adams ahead of him in the pecking order, his absence may not immediately disrupt Chelle’s tactical plans.
As such, the coaching staff may not be as anxious as they would be over a veteran starter. Nonetheless, Chelle will be hoping the injury is minor, allowing the talented 23-year-old to continue his development and remain an option for future qualifiers.
