The Super Eagles of Nigeria have suffered a major setback ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa, with star striker Victor Osimhen ruled out due to injury.
Osimhen, who started in Saturday’s narrow 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo, was substituted in the first half after a collision that initially raised fears of an ankle injury. Team medics later clarified that the Galatasaray forward sustained a bruise on his shin.
According to journalist Sulaimon Adebayor, popularly known as Pooja, citing official Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) sources, the 26-year-old complained of discomfort upon waking on Sunday morning. Medical staff subsequently confirmed that he would not be fit to travel with the squad to Johannesburg for Tuesday’s crucial clash with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana.
The news comes as a heavy blow for head coach Eric Chelle, who had counted on Osimhen’s attacking prowess in a game that could significantly shape Nigeria’s qualification hopes. The striker had only just returned to the national team after missing the Unity Cup in May and the 1-1 draw with Russia.
Earlier this year, Osimhen netted twice against Rwanda in March and thought he had added another goal on Saturday before his effort was ruled out for offside. His early exit left the Super Eagles without their leading scorer, and his absence now threatens to weaken the team’s firepower in Johannesburg.
Despite the setback, the NFF has expressed confidence in the squad’s depth, urging fans to rally behind the team as they chase victory against their fierce rivals.
