The Super Eagles are preparing for their AFCON qualifier double header against Libya, the first of which is on October 11 in Abuja at the Moshood Abiola Stadium.
Fans were left disappointed though, as interim boss Austin Eguavoen named a 23-man squad for the clash, with Victor Olatunji, the Champions League hero who was recently the first Nigerian to score and assist on his debut, omitted.
The Olatunji Omission and Osimhen’s Injury
Star striker Victor Osimhen has been ruled out due to an injury sustained while on loan at Galatasaray.
However, Olatunji, who netted his first UEFA Champions League goal and assisted on his debut, was not in the squad.
Meanwhile, Sportsbuddy also revealed the connection between Victor Olatunji and Cristiano Ronaldo.
“I am reminding him” Victor Olatunji open up on his connection with Cristiano Ronaldo
The 25-year-old’s omission has puzzled many fans, particularly given his historic feat, something even Nigerian legends like Nwankwo Kanu and John Obi Mikel couldn’t achieve in their first Champions League appearances.
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A fan posted on X, “Is this politics? What is Awoniyi doing on the list? Another added “Where is our Olatunji?”
In a previous report from Sportsbuddy, the youngster revealed the career he would have chosen if he didn’t play football.
Awoniyi make Eagles List Amidst Fan Debate
Taiwo Awoniyi of Nottingham Forest was instead picked instead of Olatunji.
Awoniyi, however, has found the going tough for game time this term, with only a few Premier League cameos.
Olatunji was many Nigerian fans’ chosen one to get a chance to strut his trade at the international level, given Osimhen’s absence, and so many hoped to see him get a run out, too.
However, the Super Eagles are confident in what they have got with a squad at their disposal currently to increase their lead at the top of their AFCON qualifier group by 4 points.