Frank Onyeka points to Osimhen injury as turning point in 2026 World Cup qualifier playoff loss

Nigeria senior men national team midfielder, Frank Onyeka, believes that striker Victor Osimhen’s first-half injury during the 2026 World Cup qualifier playoff final gave the Democratic Republic of the Congo an advantage over Super Eagles in Rabat, Morocco.

The three-time African champions were favored to overcome the Congolese side after beating Gabon 4-1 in the semifinals. But the DR Congo defeated Nigeria 4–3 on penalties after a 1–1 draw in regular time, ending Nigeria’s World Cup dream.

​Osimhen was forced off at halftime due to a suspected injury, which reduced Nigeria’s attacking threat.

​Speaking with BBC Sports, the midfielder, who plays for Premier League side Brentford, said that the Galatasaray striker’s inability to continue in the second half reduced the pressure on the Congolese defenders.

“Missing Victor going into the second half, [it] changed a bit.

Even one of the players from Congo said the same. When Victor left it gave the defenders a bit of rest and then they can relax a bit.”

Onyeka also added that Osimhen is a big threat to any defense he comes across.

“He’s such an amazing player.He’s a guy that wants to fight for every single ball. For me, I think the defenders are scared of him.

“Victor is on another level.”

The Super Eagles are now focused on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as they are looking to make amends for their defeat in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers playoffs in order to lift the AFCON trophy for the fourth time.

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