Nigeria will be without striker Victor Osimhen when they face South Africa in Tuesday’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier in Bloemfontein.
The Galatasaray forward suffered a shin injury during the Super Eagles’ 1-0 victory over Rwanda on Saturday and was substituted in the first half, with Panathinaikos striker Cyriel Dessers taking his place.
On Sunday, the Nigeria Football Federation confirmed Osimhen will not travel with the squad.
“Team doctor confirmed Victor Osimhen’s injury is a bruise on his shin. He woke up this morning with discomfort and will not be traveling with the squad to South Africa,” the NFF said in a statement.
Victor Osimehn after picking up the knock that rules him out of the crucial clash with South Africa. Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
Osimhen’s absence is a major setback for coach Eric Chelle, whose side must win to keep their hopes alive of reaching the finals.
However, Nigeria have other options in attack. Dessers, who replaced Osimhen against Rwanda, is in line to feature, while Tolu Arokodare who came off the bench to score the decisive goal in Uyo could also lead the line.
Tolu Arokodare celebrating his first competitive goal for the Super Eagles against Rwanda in Uyo. Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
The Wolverhampton Wanderers forward struck in the 51st minute to secure three vital points for the Super Eagles.
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Saturday’s result lifted Nigeria to third place in Group C with 10 points. Benin are second on 11 after defeating Zimbabwe 1-0, while South Africa remain top on 16 points following their 3-0 win over Lesotho.
Only the group winners qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup, with runners-up heading into the play-offs.
Nigeria’s task is clear: victory in Bloemfontein will cut South Africa’s lead to three points with two games left.
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A defeat, however, would leave the Super Eagles in real danger of missing the tournament for the second successive time.
