Super Eagles midfielder, Frank Onyeka, has revealed that Victor Osimhen’s injury proved decisive in Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup playoff final defeat to DR Congo in Rabat, Morocco.
Nigeria went into the clash as favourites after an impressive 4–1 victory over Gabon in the semifinals, a performance that raised expectations of a place at the World Cup.
However, the tie ended 1–1 after extra time, with DR Congo eventually prevailing 4–3 on penalties to shatter Nigeria’s qualification hopes.
Osimhen, Nigeria’s key attacking outlet, was unable to continue beyond halftime due to a suspected injury.
His absence, Onyeka explained, reduced Nigeria’s attacking edge and lifted the confidence of the Congolese side as the game wore on.
Speaking to BBC Sports, the Brentford midfielder said the Galatasaray striker’s withdrawal gave DR Congo’s defence much-needed relief.
“Missing Victor going into the second half, [it] changed a bit.
“Even one of the players from Congo said the same. When Victor left it gave the defenders a bit of rest and then they can relax a bit.”
Onyeka added that Osimhen’s presence alone is enough to unsettle defenders across the continent, describing him as a relentless and intimidating opponent.
“He’s such an amazing player.He’s a guy that wants to fight for every single ball. For me, I think the defenders are scared of him.
“Victor is on another level.”
