According to PUNCH Online, Nigeria attacker Victor Osimhen will not play in Tuesday’s pivotal 2026 World Cup qualifying encounter against South Africa in Bloemfontein.
After being challenged by Claude Niyomugabo, the striker hobbled off in the middle of the first half of Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo.
Osimhen will not play in Tuesday’s game after the team doctor evaluates his ailment, according to additional information released by the club’s camp on Sunday.
The team physician verified that Victor Osimhen’s ailment was a chin bruise. Super Eagles Media Officer Promise Efoghe sent our correspondent a WhatsApp message stating, “He woke up this morning with discomfort and will not be traveling with the squad to South Africa for Tuesday’s game.”
While the striker is expected to return to Galatasaray for further tests and treatment, his absence from the Super Eagles squad against Bafana Bafana casts a doubt on the team’s strength upfront.
On Saturday, he was replaced by Cyriel Dessers, but the Belgium-born forward didn’t provide much threat for the Rwandans like Osimhen
Second-half substitute, Tolu Arokodare, made the difference with his 51st-minute strike to keep Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup hopes alive.
Coach Eric Chelle will rely on Arokodare to lead Nigeria’s line on Tuesday.
The Super Eagles’ dismal start to the qualifying tournament puts them in danger of missing a second straight World Cup.
After four draws and one loss, Saturday’s victory was their second in seven games.
With 16 points, South Africa leads the group, followed by the Benin Republic with 11 points and the Eagles in third place with 10.
The top team in the group will automatically qualify for the tournament, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, along with nine other African nations that win their respective groups.
