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Super Eagles defensive stalwart Igoh Ogbu is reportedly set to miss Nigeria's international friendly against the Portugal national football team, scheduled for Wednesday, June, after suffering a severe injury during a recent team training session.
According to reports, preliminary medical assessments suspect that the 26-year-old centre-back has ruptured his left Achilles tendon and is expected to be out for a significant period.
Before this setback, Ogbu had established himself as a dependable presence in Nigeria’s defence, stepping up to assume increased responsibilities following the international retirement of legendary captain William Troost-Ekong.
Since making his official international debut during the Unity Cup tournament in May 2025, the defender has accumulated 12 caps, contributing in an auxiliary role to help Nigeria win a bronze medal at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
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Igoh Ogbu's injury creates a gap in defence
His sudden, tragic absence creates a defensive void for the Super Eagles' technical crew as they prepare to face the World Cup-bound European heavyweights.
Super Eagles defender, Igoh Ogbu has been ruled out of 🇳🇬 Nigeria's friendly against Portugal 🇵🇹 after sustaining an injury in training this evening. It is believed to be a suspected rupture of his left achilles tendon, according to the team medics.
— Engineer Kowope (@Undisputed_Jsam) June 6, 2026
Ogbu will be a huge miss not just for his country but also for the club, as he is set to miss a chunk of next season after having just successfully anchored SK Slavia Prague to their second consecutive Czech First League title.
In Ogbu's stead, English Premier League-bound Hull City defender Semi Ajayi and rising Rangers star Emmanuel Fernandez are the two most likely candidates to start beside Calvin Bassey for the clash in Lisbon.
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