Nigeria’s World Cup qualification campaign has hit a stumbling block with the injury of star striker Victor Osimhen, who will miss crucial matches against South Africa and Benin next month.

The NFF announced on Tuesday that Osimhen will be out for four weeks due to an undisclosed injury, leaving a significant gap in the Super Eagles’ attack.

Victor Osimhen. (Photo by Franco Romano/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

In response, head coach Finidi George has called up Kenneth Igboke from Rangers International.

Igboke, a left-back, is the third player from the Nigeria Premier League to be included in the squad.

Who is Kenneth Igboke?

The 23-year-old who hails from Nsukka, Enugu State, and plays for his boyhood club.

Discovered by Rangers’ scouts while playing street football, Igboke has rapidly progressed to become a key player for the seven-time league champions.

Style of Play

Igboke excels as an attacking left-back, a good crosser with defensive solidity, he has put on some standout performances this season. His adaptability allows him to contribute effectively in various defensive roles.

This season, Igboke has played 20 games for the NPFL leaders, scoring two goals and providing one assist.

Updated Super Eagles 2026 FIFA WCQ List

Goalkeepers:
Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa), Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy), Ojo Olorunleke (Enyimba FC)

Defenders:

Chidozie Awaziem (Boavista FC, Portugal), Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce FC, Turkey), Sodiq Ismail (Remo Stars FC), Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England), Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England), Benjamin Tanimu (Ihefu SC, Tanzania), Kenneth Igboke (Rangers International)

Midfielders:
Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England), Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium), Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (Royal Antwerp FC, Belgium), Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England), Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England), Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Hatayspor, Turkey)

Forwards:
Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany), Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England), Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy), Paul Onuachu (Trabzonspor FC, Turkey), Ademola Lookman (Atalanta FC, Italy), Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany), Terem Moffi (OGC Nice, France)

The Super Eagles are currently third in their 2026 World Cup qualifying group with two points from two matches.