Galatasaray have confirmed the extent of the injury sustained by Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, who was ruled out of Nigeria’s World Cup qualifier against South Africa on Sunday.
The 26-year-old limped off in the first half of Saturday’s 1-0 win over Rwanda in Uyo following a nasty challenge Claude Niyomugabo.
Medical scans in Turkey revealed a moderate sprain with bleeding in his ankle ligaments.
“Necessary treatment has been initiated in order for our football player to return to the field as soon as possible,” said Galatasaray team doctor Yener İnce.
Victor Osimehn. Photo Credit: Imago
Osimhen, who joined the Turkish champions this summer, had scored three goals for the Eagles but will now miss his 5th match in the qualifying series.
He was flown back to Istanbul on Sunday in a private jet arranged by his club, while the Super Eagles travelled to Bloemfontein for Tuesday night’s crucial Group C clash.
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Nigeria trail leaders South Africa by six points with three matches remaining, and defeat could leave their hopes of automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup hanging by a thread.
Victor Osimehn after picking up the knock that ultimately rules him out of the crucial clash with South Africa. Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
Cyriel Dessers, Tolu Arokodare who scored the winner against Rwanda and Ademola Lookman are expected to lead the line in Osimhen’s absence.
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His injury is also a setback for Galatasaray, who face Eyüpsor in the league before travelling to Germany to meet Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League.
