Nigeria’s hopes of securing back-to-back victories in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers have suffered a major setback after team doctors confirmed that Victor Osimhen will miss Tuesday’s clash against South Africa in Bloemfontein.
The Galatasaray striker sustained a chin bruise during Saturday’s 1-0 win over Rwanda in Uyo and later complained of persistent discomfort. Following medical assessment, he was ruled out of the travelling squad.
“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 doctor confirmed.
Osimhen’s absence leaves head coach Eric Chelle with a tough decision on how to restructure his attack. Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare, and Samuel Chukwueze are the front-runners to lead the line. Arokodare, who scored the winner against Rwanda, is tipped to start, though Dessers’ physicality and link-up play could also be preferred.
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Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon are expected to carry greater attacking responsibility from the wings, with Alex Iwobi possibly pushed further forward to provide support.
Nigeria, currently third in Group C with 10 points from six games, sit six points behind leaders South Africa. The Super Eagles must win in Bloemfontein to revive their qualification hopes.
“My choices need no explanation, only the three points matter,” Chelle said after the Rwanda victory.
