According to a report by OwnGoalNigeria on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Super Eagles star Samuel Chukwueze will miss Nigeria's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying double-header against Tanzania after undergoing successful surgery to correct a hip injury.

The 27-year-old AC Milan forward sustained the injury during his club's 3-2 Serie A victory over Atalanta on October 18, 2026, and has been unavailable for selection since then.

According to the report, Chukwueze underwent surgery in London after initial efforts to manage the injury failed to get him back on the pitch.

AC Milan subsequently confirmed that the Nigerian international underwent a successful operation to repair a ruptured tendon in the tensor fasciae latae muscle of his left hip.

The procedure was performed by Professor Ernest Schilders, with AC Milan club doctor Stefano Mazzoni also present.

The Italian club confirmed that Chukwueze would return to Italy to begin his rehabilitation programme but did not provide a specific timeline for his return to competitive action.

His absence represents a major setback for Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, who will have to prepare his team without the winger for both encounters against Tanzania.

Nigeria will host the Taifa Stars at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on November 13 before travelling to Dar es Salaam for the return fixture on November 17.

Chukwueze featured in Nigeria's opening qualifying match against Madagascar but was unavailable for the subsequent 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau.

The Super Eagles will now have to find alternative attacking options as they seek maximum points from the two encounters to strengthen their position in the qualifying campaign.