Kelechi Iheanacho is one of the most notable absentees from Nigeria's squad for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Tanzania on November 13 and 17. The 30-year-old striker has scored 17 goals and provided three assists in 14 appearances for Bursaspor in Turkey's second division, but his impressive numbers have not earned him a place in Eric Chelle's latest selection.

The decision is particularly surprising given Victor Osimhen's absence. The Galatasaray forward has undergone surgery on his left knee, leaving Nigeria without one of their most important attacking players. Nevertheless, Chelle has opted for other options up front, including Akor Adams, Taiwo Awoniyi and Tolu Arokodare.

Furthermore, Chelle had previously defended Iheanacho's return to the national team in September. According to OwnGoalNigeria, the coach praised his return to form despite playing in a lower division. The striker subsequently scored in Nigeria's 3-3 friendly draw against Russia in October.

Chelle has not publicly explained the specific reasons behind Iheanacho's latest omission, making his exclusion all the more striking given his recent performances and Osimhen's absence.

Nigeria's 24-man squad

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho and Arthur Okonkwo.

Defenders: Bruno Onyemaechi, Ola Aina, Benjamin Fredricks, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Abdullahi Bewene.

Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Alhassan Yusuf, Tochukwu Nnadi, Samson Tijani, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Mubarak Suleiman.

Forwards: Moses Simon, Taiwo Awoniyi, Akor Adams, Ademola Lookman, Tolu Arokodare and Moses Usor.