Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, has been ruled out of Tuesday’s decisive 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa in Bloemfontein.
Osimhen was forced off midway through the first half of Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo on Saturday, following a collision with Claude Niyomugabo.
An update from the Eagles’ camp on Sunday confirmed that the Napoli forward will play no part in the upcoming clash after medical checks.
“Team doctor confirmed Victor Osimhen’s injury is a bruise on his chin. He woke up this morning with discomfort and will not be travelling with the squad to South Africa for Tuesday’s game,” Super Eagles Media Officer, Promise Efoghe, explained in a WhatsApp message to our correspondent.
Although he is expected to return to Galatasaray for further examination and treatment, his absence raises concerns about Nigeria’s firepower in attack.
Osimhen was replaced by Cyriel Dessers against Rwanda, but the Belgium-born striker failed to make any significant impact.
It was second-half substitute Tolu Arokodare who delivered the winning goal in the 51st minute, keeping Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes alive.
Coach Eric Chelle is now expected to turn to Arokodare to spearhead the attack against Bafana Bafana on Tuesday.
The Super Eagles’ campaign remains on shaky ground, with Saturday’s result only their second win in seven matches.
They have drawn four and lost one, leaving them third in the group with 10 points.
South Africa currently leads the table with 16 points, while Benin Republic sits second with 11.
Only the group winners will qualify automatically for the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, alongside eight other group leaders across the continent.
