Super Eagles star risks missing AFCON qualifiers after horrific tackle

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle could be without one of Nigeria's top midfielders in Europe during the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Soccernet.ng reports.

​This comes as Getafe midfielder Christantus Uche faces a potential spell on the sidelines due to injury.

​The 23-year-old returned to the club this summer following the expiration of his loan contract at Crystal Palace. He has since been heavily involved in Getafe's pre-season preparations, featuring in games against Getafe, Valladolid, and Monaco.

Christantus Uche at Crystal Palace. Copyright: ImagoxStephenxFlynnx

​Unfortunately, the match against Monaco took a sour turn when he had to be stretchered off in the 83rd minute.

​The Super Eagles star was the victim of a reckless tackle by Christian Mawissa, who lunged at his knee with studs showing. The challenge looked severe, and it was immediately clear that Uche was in severe pain.

​Getafe later provided an update on their official website, confirming that Uche had suffered a right knee contusion and would undergo further tests to determine the full extent of the injury.

​However, writing on his Instagram page, the midfielder admitted he felt his knee twist, though he remains hopeful the damage is not severe.

​”Just letting those who were worried about me know, yesterday I hurt my knee. I still haven't gone to the doctor, but today they'll check my leg. Yesterday I felt bad and twisted my knee—'this is a movie but reality.' I hope it's not serious ”

Christantus Uche social media post. (Credit: Uche IG)

​While a simple kneecap contusion typically heals within one to two months, Uche's admission that his knee twisted has raised fears that he could face a much longer layoff.

​Super Eagles: Chelle Faces Key Selection Headaches for AFCON 2027 Qualifiers

​With Christantus Uche's injury, it is unlikely he will be fit in time for the Super Eagles' upcoming 2027 AFCON qualifiers.

Russia's Andrei Mostovoy & Nigeria's Christantus Uche + Frank Onyeka. Copyright: ImagoxMikhail Tereshchenko/TASS

​As September draws near, Coach Eric Chelle's squad list is expected to be taking shape. However, he faces difficult decisions, particularly in the goalkeeping department. With Maduka Okoye, Stanley Nwabali, Arthur Okonkwo, and Francis Uzoho among the possible invitees, he will need to narrow his selection down to three.

​Headaches also persist in the attacking department. Akor Adams has played limited football since June and is still settling in at Venezia, a situation that could open the door for Victor Boniface or Tolu Arokodare to stake a claim.

Eric Chelle of Nigeria looks on. Copyright: Imagoxloulidiphotox

​Nonetheless, with the domestic season starting next week, most of these players are expected to regain regular playing time and hit their stride.

​The Super Eagles will first host Madagascar in their opening AFCON qualifier before traveling to face Guinea-Bissau in September.