2026 FIFA WCQ: Osimhen out of Tuesday clash against South Africa
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen is a major doubt for Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifier against South Africa because of an ankle problem.
Osimhen returned to the Nigeria squad for the World Cup qualification double-header this month after being left out by Eric Chelle for the Unity Cup triumph in May and subsequent 1-1 draw against Russia a few days later.
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As expected, the Galatasaray striker led the line for the Super Eagles as they took on Rwanda on Saturday in what was a must-win fixture for the African giants.
The 26-year-old scored a brace when the two sides met in March, but was unable to repeat the trick on home soil as he was forced off in the first half.
Osimhen sustained an injury to his left foot and head coach Chelle admits it is not yet clear whether the former African Footballer of the Year will make the trip to Bloemfontein.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Chelle said, “I can’t say much about Victor for now. He has pain in his ankle, and we will see when he wakes up tomorrow.
“I also have to discuss with the team doctors to see whether he will be available for the game.”
Nigeria will face the Group C leaders, knowing anything less than a win will all but end their hopes of qualifying automatically for next year’s World Cup.
While the 1-0 win over Rwanda - secured by substitute Tolu Arokodare's overhead kick early in the second half - moved the Super Eagles up to third in the table, they remain six points behind leaders South Africa with only three matches remaining.
