Raphael Onyedika returns for Nigeria after shoulder injury

Raphael Onyedika has made a welcome return to action for Nigeria after recovering from a shoulder problem.

The 25-year-old midfielder had complained of discomfort following Eintracht Frankfurt’s 2-2 Bundesliga draw with Freiburg and joined the national team while still carrying the issue.

Nigeria’s coaching staff chose not to risk him in their opening AFCON qualifying match against Madagascar, a 2-1 victory. Onyedika watched the entire game from the substitutes’ bench as he continued his recovery.

He was cleared to feature in the next qualifier against Guinea-Bissau, although he initially remained among the replacements. The midfielder eventually entered the match in the 76th minute, registering his first competitive minutes of the international camp. Guinea-Bissau won comfortably, securing a 3-0 victory.

The appearance should reassure Frankfurt that Onyedika’s fitness concerns are easing. Known for his defensive work and ability to protect the back four, he could quickly return to contention for a central midfield role under coach Adi Hutter once the international break concludes.

His comeback also arrives at a useful moment for the German club. Onyedika has already made four appearances during the 2026-27 season, and a healthy return would give Frankfurt another option as the Bundesliga schedule intensifies.