The Super Eagles will be without star striker Victor Osimhen when they face South Africa in Tuesday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Bloemfontein.
Osimhen sustained an ankle ligament injury during Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo on Saturday. He limped off in the first half and was replaced by Cyriel Dessers.
After flying back to Turkey, scans conducted by his club Galatasaray confirmed the damage. The club’s team doctor, Yener İnce, revealed in a medical bulletin that Osimhen suffered a moderate sprain with stretching and bleeding in his ankle ligaments. Treatment has already begun to speed up his recovery.
The decisive goal in the Rwanda clash came from Tolu Arokodare, whose second-half strike secured Nigeria all three points. His performance has sparked calls for the Wolves striker to lead the line against South Africa in Osimhen’s absence.
The Super Eagles, currently chasing Group C leaders Bafana Bafana, must win in Bloemfontein to strengthen their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in North America.
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