Nathan Tella's withdrawal: Another Enugu Rangers product handed late call-up to Super Eagles 

Bayern Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella has opted out of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and Republic of Benin in June.

Nigeria will play South Africa on June 7, and later head to Benin Republic for second game three days later.

According to the Nigeria Football Federation's X account,  Tella withdrew from the games citing family reasons. 

The NFF further stated that Finidi George has invited Caykur Rizespor midfielder Ibrahim Olawoyin, as his replacement.

Olawoyin becomes the second Enugu Rangers product handed a late call-up for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, after fullback Kenneth Obinna Igboke, who replaced Napoli man Victor Osimhen.

Finidi George had initially invited 23 players for the games, but Victor Osimhen withdrew earlier due to an injury that will sideline him for four to five weeks. 

Nathan Tella was a key player for Bayern Leverkusen who won the Bundesliga title, featuring in 24 games and scoring 5 goals.
 
On the other hand, Olawoyin featured in 36 games for Rizespor, scoring 8 goals and providing 3 assists.

Nigeria are currently placed third in Group C with 2 points. The Super Eagles camp is expected to open on June 1. 

Adeyemi Adewale

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