Tanzania's preparations for their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Nigeria have suffered a blow, with Clement Mzize and Dickson Job ruled out through injury.

The pair were absent from the travelling squad that departed for Nigeria on Monday ahead of Friday's Matchday Three fixture against the Super Eagles.

Clifford Ndimbo, Director of Media and Communications at the Tanzania Football Federation, confirmed to The Citizen that both players had been granted permission to remain with their club side, Young Africans, to continue their rehabilitation.

Recent returns cut short

Mzize and Job had only recently recovered from lengthy injury spells and returned to competitive football, but fresh fitness concerns have ended their involvement in the crucial qualifying ties.

Their unavailability leaves head coach Miguel Gamondi with a squad of 22 for the two matches against Nigeria.

Fixtures and venues

The Taifa Stars first face the Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, before hosting the return leg at the Amman Stadium on Tuesday, 17 November.