AFCON 2025
Victor Osimhen has been ruled out of Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, according to the NFF media team.
The Galatasaray striker has been recovering from a muscle strain sustained earlier this month. His recovery has progressed more slowly than initially expected, meaning he will not be available for the Super Eagles’ September qualifiers.
Osimhen suffered the injury during Galatasaray’s 3-2 victory over İstanbul Başakşehir on September 4, scoring before being substituted in the 33rd minute. Medical examinations subsequently revealed a moderate-to-advanced strain with bleeding in his right adductor muscle.
The 27-year-old was initially included in Éric Chelle’s 24-man squad announced on September 17, despite the injury. The NFF confirmed his selection alongside Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon and other key members of the Super Eagles squad.
However, with his recovery taking longer than expected, Osimhen will remain focused on rehabilitation rather than joining Nigeria for the qualifiers.
Nigeria will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
Osimhen’s absence leaves Chelle with alternative attacking options including Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Usor and George Ilenikhena.
