Victor Osimhen Ruled Out With Injury As Nigeria Departs For Crucial World Cup Qualifier Vs South Africa

‎Nigeria’s bid to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup hit a snag as Victor Osimhen was ruled out of Tuesday’s qualifier versus South Africa.

‎The Galatasaray forward started Saturday’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Rwanda but had to come off after a heavy challenge from Claude Niyomugabo in the 35th minute.

‎Osimhen was subsequently replaced by new Panathinaikos forward Cyriel Dessers.

‎While Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle remained uncertain about the severity of the former Napoli striker’s injury after the match, the national team later confirmed he would miss the clash with Bafana Bafana.

‎“Team doctor confirmed Victor Osimhen’s injury is a bruise on his Shin. He woke up this morning with discomfort and will not be travelling with the squad to South Africa for Tuesday’s game,” a statement made available to Flashscore.com read.

‎With the 2023 African Player of the Year unavailable, coach Chelle will rely on Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Moses Simon to deliver in the make-or-break clash.

‎Meanwhile, the Super Eagles left for Bloemfontein, South Africa, on Sunday morning ahead of Tuesday’s crucial clash at the Free State Stadium.

‎Nigeria, Africa Cup of Nations champions in 2013, sit third in Group C with 10 points from seven matches, behind Benin Republic and South Africa.

‎The stakes are immense, as anything less than victory against Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana would deal a heavy blow to their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes. The decisive clash looms as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s campaign.

‎Nigeria is desperate to avoid a repeat of 2022, when it failed to reach the tournament in Qatar after a painful play-off defeat to Ghana.

‎With pressure mounting, Tuesday’s showdown is a must-win opportunity for the team to keep their dream of returning to the World Cup alive.