Super Eagles defender Olisa Ndah is set to return to action after spending five months on the sidelines due to a serious leg injury. According to The South African, as reported by FRONTPAGE Sports Extra, the Nigerian defender has resumed training with his club, Orlando Pirates, and could be available for selection soon.
Ndah’s Injury and Recovery
The 27-year-old last played for the Soweto giants in September 2024 during the team’s second league game of the season, where he suffered a fracture to his Tibia and Fibula. Initially, medical reports suggested that Ndah would be out for the rest of the season, but his recovery has progressed faster than expected.
In recent weeks, the defender has been training with the first team, providing a much-needed boost for Orlando Pirates’ backline, especially with Thabiso Sesane recently sustaining an injury.
A club spokesperson, speaking to The South African, confirmed Ndah’s readiness to return:
“He (Ndah) has done well in the past few weeks and will be ready when selected to play. He is in line to return in the coming matches, possibly this week.”
Boost for Nigeria’s World Cup Qualifiers
Ndah’s return is also a significant boost for the Super Eagles, who are preparing for crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March. New head coach Eric Chelle will be looking to strengthen his defensive options as Nigeria prepares to face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in must-win fixtures.
Currently, Nigeria sits fifth in Group C with just three points from four matches, having drawn three and lost one. To revive their qualification hopes, the Super Eagles must:
Win all six remaining matches in the group
Hope for favourable results in other matches
Failure to achieve these objectives could see Nigeria miss out on a second consecutive FIFA World Cup, a situation the team and fans are eager to avoid.
With his experience, defensive solidity, and aerial ability, Ndah could be a key asset in Nigeria’s backline as they push for qualification. His timely return to fitness presents an opportunity for the Super Eagles to strengthen their squad ahead of the decisive qualifiers.
