Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen has been ruled out of the Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa after sustaining an injury in the 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo on Saturday.
Osimhen limped off midway through the first half following a challenge from Rwanda’s Claude Niyomugabo. Team officials later confirmed that the Galatasaray forward suffered a bruise on his chin, which left him in discomfort on Sunday morning. He will not travel with the squad to Bloemfontein for Tuesday’s fixture.
“Team doctor confirmed Victor Osimhen’s injury is a bruise on his chin. He woke up this morning with discomfort and will not be travelling with the squad to South Africa for Tuesday’s game,” Super Eagles media officer Promise Efoghe told reporters.
The striker is expected to return to his club for further assessment and treatment, raising concerns about Nigeria’s attacking options in a must-win encounter. Osimhen, the team’s leading forward, has been central to the Eagles’ goal-scoring threat throughout the qualifiers.
In his absence, coach Eric Chelle is expected to turn to Tolu Arokodare, who came off the bench to score the decisive goal against Rwanda in the 51st minute. Cyriel Dessers, who replaced Osimhen during the first half on Saturday, struggled to make an impact in front of goal.
Nigeria’s qualification campaign has been inconsistent, with the Eagles registering just two wins in seven matches, alongside four draws and one defeat. They currently sit third in the group with 10 points, behind leaders South Africa on 16 points and the Benin Republic on 11.
Only the group winners will qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. With South Africa firmly in control of the group, Osimhen’s absence could prove costly as Nigeria looks to avoid missing a second consecutive World Cup.
