- Safiu Kehinde
Super Eagles’ striker Victor Osimehn, has been ruled of the Nigerian national team’s clash with South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying match.
The three-time African Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions were dealt a huge blow during their must-win game against Rwanda on Saturday when Osimehn was subbed off after sustaining a bruise to his chin before the end of first half.
While the Super Eagles had secured a narrow 1-0 against the Amavubis at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, concerns have however grown as the team’s doctor confirmed that Osimehn will not be part of the squad travelling to South Africa for another must-win game against the Bafanabafanas on Tuesday.
“Victor has a bruise on his chin and woke up this morning with discomfort. After examination, it was decided that he will not travel with the squad to South Africa,” the team’s doctor confirmed.
With Osimhen out of the squad, the Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, would have to depend on Tolu Arokodare, who scored the lone goal against Rwanda, and returnee, Cyril Dessers.
However, the CAF player of the year, Ademola Lookman, and fellow winger, Moses Simon, would be saddled with the responsibility of providing the attacking spark from the wings.
Nigeria’s win against Rwanda saw them move to third place with 10 points on the Group C table.
They are however six points behind South Africa who currently top the table.