Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen is set to miss Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifier against South Africa on Tuesday due to injury.
This was revealed by Galatasaray manager, Okan Buruk, who confirmed that the forward is currently in pain following an ankle injury he picked up during Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Rwanda on Saturday.
Speaking during an interview on Now Spor, as quoted by Turkish media outlet habersarikirmizi, Buruk expressed disappointment over the injury and said the Turkish champions are eager to assess the full extent of Osimhen’s condition.
“If possible, we want to bring him [Osimhen] here as soon as possible and have him checked,” Buruk said. “It will be clearer tomorrow, he is in pain. He will not be able to play in the match in two days [against South Africa]. We will see how he is. It was a shame for us.”
Osimhen, who started the match against Rwanda, was substituted in the first half after appearing to struggle with his movement. He was replaced by Panathinaikos striker, Cyriel Dessers.
Osimhen’s absence will be a major blow for Nigeria as the team prepares to face South Africa in what many see as a key match in the journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Super Eagles are under pressure to perform after a less-than-convincing start to the qualifiers.
The Napoli striker is widely regarded as Nigeria’s most dangerous forward and was recently nominated for the 2025 CAF African Player of the Year award. His speed, strength, and goal-scoring ability have made him a key part of the national team setup.
Nigeria coach Finidi George now faces the tough task of reorganising his attack without the team’s top striker. The spotlight may now fall on Dessers, Terem Moffi, or other available options to fill the gap.
Galatasaray, who signed Osimhen in a high-profile move earlier this year, are also worried about his fitness, as the Turkish league season continues. The club is currently chasing a domestic title and does not want to risk their star forward getting more seriously injured while on international duty.
Osimhen has a history of minor injuries that have sidelined him at crucial moments, both for club and country. His current injury could lead to further medical evaluations and possibly keep him out of action for a few weeks, depending on the severity.
Nigeria will host South Africa on Tuesday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, in their third group-stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers. The Super Eagles must secure maximum points to boost their chances of finishing top of the group and qualifying for the tournament.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has not officially commented on Osimhen’s injury or his expected absence from the match.
Fans are hopeful that the team will rise to the occasion despite the setback.
