Victor Osimhen: Nigeria coach Chelle provides injury update on star striker

Nigeria national team head coach Eric Chelle gave an update on the injury suffered by striker Victor Osimhen after the Super Eagles’ home victory against Rwanda on Saturday in 2026 World Cup qualifying.

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Osimhen was forced off the pitch in the 35th minute due to an injury he sustained at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Speaking with reporters after the game, Chelle revealed that the Galatasaray striker felt something in his ankle and will be assessed ahead of the game against South Africa.

“I can’t say much about Victor for now. He has pain in his ankle, we will see when he wakes up tomorrow. I have to also discuss with the team doctors to see whether he will be available for the (South Africa) game.”

The 26-year-old’s early departure was a major blow, especially after he had a goal disallowed for a controversial offside call earlier in the game. He was replaced by Cyriel Dessers, the new Panathinaikos signing.

Also, when asked about the team’s performance, Chelle acknowledged the difficulty of the match:

“Rwanda were very disciplined defensively, and it was a tough game for us. We were a little tired. The most important thing is that we got the three points. We need to analyze this game and be ready for South Africa.”

It is yet to be decided if Osimhen would feature in Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifier encounter against Group C leaders Bafana Bafana on Tuesday.

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