Confirmed team news: Boost for Nigeria as Chukwueze, Awaziem given green light to face Bafana Bafana 

The Super Eagles have been handed a double boost before their 2026 World Cup qualifying match against South Africa's Bafana Bafana at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Friday evening.

AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze and Porto-reared centre-back Chidozie Awaziem have received the medical green light to take to the pitch against the 1996 African champions with both players recovering from their ailments. 

The 2015 Fifa U17 World Cup winner shook off a hamstring-related injury to report for international duty on Saturday, only to suffer an minor injury in a training session two days ago. 

As for the Boavista central defender, he had trained separately from the team earlier this week due to discomfort

Nigeria are already missing key players Victor Osimhen, Moses Simon, Zaidu Sanusi, Ola Aina and William Troost-Ekong for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, but boosted by the return of Victor Boniface and Wilfred Ndidi.

Speaking to reporters at the pre-match press conference, Super Eagles coach Finidi George suggested that Chukwueze and Awaziem are available for selection against Bafana Bafana.

Providing a squad update, Finidi said: "I think all the players are ready. The training here Chukwueze had a knock but he trained properly yesterday so he's good to go. Chidozie, just stomach upset, and he's fine now."

The Super Eagles, currently on two points after draws against minnows Lesotho and Zimbabwe in their opening two games in Group C, are aiming for a statement win against Bafana Bafana. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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