Breaking News: Crawley Town Defender Benjamin Tanimu Joins Nigeria Squad for Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers

In a last-minute shuffle, Nigeria’s caretaker coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has handed a late invitation to Crawley Town defender Benjamin Tanimu to replace Bright Osayi-Samuel in the team’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

Osayi-Samuel, who plays for Turkish Super Lig giants Fenerbahce, was forced to withdraw from the games due to injury. The news comes as a boost for the Nigerian team, who will be relying on Tanimu’s defensive expertise to help them secure a strong start in the qualifiers.

The 22-year-old centre-back arrived at the team’s base in Uyo on Tuesday afternoon and will join his teammates for their first training session later tonight. Tanimu’s inclusion in the squad is a testament to his impressive form with English League One club Crawley Town, which he joined on transfer deadline day.

Tanimu’s journey to the Nigerian national team is an inspiring one, having risen through the ranks with Bendel Insurance before making the move to Crawley Town. His late call-up is a reminder that hard work and dedication can take you to new heights.

The Nigerian team will be looking to make a statement in their upcoming qualifiers, and with Tanimu on board, they may have just found the perfect addition to their defensive lineup.