Nigeria's Super Eagles could be without another center-forward as emerging reports indicate that Saudi Arabian club, Al-Shabab, has allegedly threatened to stop their striker Odion Ighalo from the tournament.
Ighalo, 32, is one of 10 forwards named in the 28-man squad for the 2021 edition of the African Cup of Nations, AFCON, by Eagles' interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen.
The Super Eagles pre-tournament training camp has since opened in Nigeria's capital, Abuja with over 20 players available. However, Ighalo is one of those still being expected at the Bolton White hotel despite the experienced forward being in the country.
According to the latest report, in what would be another blow to Nigeria's title aspirations, Ighalo could become the next high-profile player after Emmanuel Dennis, and Victor Osimhen to miss out on Africa's flagship competition as his club has threatened they won't release the 32-year-old due to a clause in his contract.
"The issue with Ighalo and his club (Al-Shabab) is that his contract had a clause that he won't honour national team tournament," Pulse's NPFL expert, Adepoju Tobi, said.
"Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, and CAF are discussing with the club and will conclude today. Ighalo might miss out( on AFCON)." He added.
Ighalo, who returned to the Super Eagles over two years after he retired from international football in November 2021, has been in superb form for his Saudi Arabian club.
He has been involved in 12 goals ( 11 goals and 1 assist) in 11 appearances this season for the Saudi Arabia giants.