IDNN Sports Desk
Osimhen ruled out of Nigeria vs South Africa World Cup qualifier with shin injury
Nigeria have been dealt a major setback ahead of Tuesday’s crucial World Cup qualifier in Johannesburg after Victor Osimhen was officially ruled out with injury.
The Galatasaray striker was forced off in the 35th minute of Saturday’s 1–0 win over Rwanda in Uyo, sparking immediate concern among fans and officials. While initial reports suggested an ankle knock, NFF medical staff later confirmed it was a shin bruise.
According to journalist Sulaimon Adebayor, quoting official NFF sources, Osimhen woke up on Sunday with lingering discomfort and has been withdrawn from the traveling squad to face group leaders South Africa.
Osimhen had only just returned to the national setup this month after missing the Unity Cup triumph in May and the 1–1 draw against Russia. He had a goal disallowed early against Rwanda before being substituted, with Cyriel Dessers taking his place.
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Head coach Eric Chelle now faces a selection dilemma. Arokodare, Dessers, and Ademola Lookman provide attacking options, but none carry Osimhen’s proven goalscoring edge. The striker scored twice against Rwanda in March and has often been Nigeria’s talisman in qualifying campaigns.
His absence looms large as Nigeria trail South Africa by six points but hold a game in hand. A win in Johannesburg would revive hopes of topping Group C, while defeat could leave the Super Eagles’ route to Canada, Mexico, and the USA in 2026 hanging by a thread.
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