Nigeria will begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign without one of their most exciting young players after Brighton winger Zadok Yohanna was ruled out of the September fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, Footynaija.com reports.
The 19-year-old has been left out of Brighton’s matchday squads as he follows an adapted training programme, with head coach Fabian Hurzeler confirming that he will return to contention after the international break.
The timing is a setback for Nigeria, who face Madagascar in Uyo before travelling to Guinea-Bissau just four days later. The Group L fixtures for September 25 and 29 gives Eric Chelle a demanding start to the qualifying campaign.
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Yohanna had been building a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most promising young attackers before his move to England. He came through the Ikon Allah Football Academy before moving to Sweden in 2025, where he broke into AIK’s first team and produced five goals and four assists in 18 appearances during the 2026 season.
Yohanna’s rise comes to a temporary halt
Brighton paid serious money to take the winger from AIK, handing him a five-year contract until 2031 as Hurzeler backed his ability to make an impact in the final third. The German coach described him as dynamic, quick and willing to take defenders on.
Yohanna then made his first Brighton appearance in August, coming off the bench in a 3-0 pre-season win over Roma as he began adjusting to English football.
His absence means Chelle will have to work without another young attacking option as Nigeria prepare for their first competitive matches since missing the 2026 World Cup.
The Super Eagles remain the only non-host nation in Group L chasing the group’s qualifying place, with Tanzania already guaranteed a spot as one of the tournament hosts.
