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Nigeria’s Super Eagles star forward Victor Osimhen has been officially sidelined for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, dealing a significant setback to the Super Eagles’ campaign.
The Galatasaray ace, who has been a key figure in Nigeria’s attack, picked up an injury during their narrow 1-0 victory over Rwanda’s Amavubi in Uyo on Friday, forcing him off early in the first half.
The match against Rwanda, held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Akwa Ibom State’s capital, saw Osimhen substituted in the 37th minute by Cyriel Dessers after sustaining discomfort that worsened overnight.
Despite the early exit, the Super Eagles secured a vital win thanks to a lone strike from Tolu Arokodare, keeping their qualification hopes alive in Group C.
As confirmed by the team’s media officer, Promise Efoghe, Osimhen woke up on Sunday with notable discomfort in his chin area and will not join the squad for the trip to South Africa, opting instead to return to his club for further medical attention.
The pivotal clash with South Africa is set for Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at the iconic Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, where kickoff is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. Nigerian time.
Head coach Eric Chelle had initially planned to assess Osimhen post-Rwanda, but the injury has ruled out the 26-year-old talisman, leaving the team to rely on alternatives like Dessers and Arokodare to fill the void.
With Nigeria trailing group leaders South Africa by six points, this absence could prove costly in their bid for direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Source: NationalAccordNewspaper | Read the Full Story…
