Eric Chelle Delivers Injury Update on Lookman, Bassey And Fredrick Ahead of Tanzania Rematch

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has offered an update on the fitness of Ademola Lookman, Calvin Bassey and Benjamin Fredrick as Nigeria prepares for its return meeting with Tanzania following their opening victory.

According to a report by BBC Sport on Saturday, November 14, 2026, the Nigerian coach addressed concerns surrounding the availability of the three players after their involvement in the first encounter against the Taifa Stars.

Lookman emerged as a major injury concern after being forced off during Nigeria’s impressive 3-1 victory over Tanzania in Uyo. The Atletico Madrid forward started the match in attack alongside Akor Adams but was unable to complete the first half after experiencing discomfort.

The former Atalanta star went to ground without any obvious physical contact from an opponent, prompting Chelle to make an early substitution by bringing on Moses Simon. His unexpected departure immediately raised questions about his fitness ahead of the next meeting between both countries.

Speaking after the game, Chelle disclosed that Lookman had complained about a problem with his knee, although the precise cause and severity of the discomfort had not yet been established.

The Super Eagles manager suggested that the forward might have sustained an impact around the affected area but admitted that the medical team was still uncertain about the exact nature of the problem.

Chelle explained that Lookman first experienced pain while attempting to strike the ball with his left foot. The situation reportedly became more concerning after he received another knock around the same knee, eventually making it necessary for him to leave the pitch.

The coach said the decision to substitute the attacker was taken because he was struggling with the discomfort and could no longer continue comfortably.

While Lookman’s condition remains a concern, Chelle provided more reassuring information about the defensive department, confirming that Calvin Bassey and Benjamin Fredrick had no serious fitness problems.

Both defenders reportedly experienced cramps during the contest against Tanzania, raising some concerns about their physical condition. However, Chelle clarified that the situation was not serious and that the players were doing fine.

Their positive fitness update will come as a relief to the Nigerian technical crew, particularly as the team looks to maintain its defensive strength in the return fixture.

Attention will now turn to Lookman’s recovery, with the Super Eagles hoping that the injury is not serious enough to keep the influential attacker out of their next assignment.

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