Torunarigha replaces Tella in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Following Nathan Tella's injury, Jordan Torunarigha has been selected to replace Tella in Nigeria's squad (Super Eagles) for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.

His withdrawal from the squad came when his manager Xabi Alonso confirmed his depreciating health status while he was on the bench during Bayer Leverkusen’s 2-0 loss to Bayern Munich on Tuesday, 11th of March, 2025.


“Camp Update: Joshua Torunarigha has been called to replace injured Nathan Tella. We wish Nathan quick recovery,” the Super Eagles announced on their official X account on Thursday.


Torunarigha, 27, returns to the national team after featuring in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The defender has earned one cap for Nigeria

After Torunarigha, 27, last featuring in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, he has earned a cap from Nigeria making Nigerians to see him as a perfect replacement for Tella.