Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen is set to miss Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches after failing to recover in time from his muscle injury., the Nigeria Football Federation have informed in a press release made available to allnigeriasoccer.com.
Osimhen has been sidelined since sustaining the injury during Galatasaray’s 3-2 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir on September 4.
The striker was forced off during the first half, with subsequent examinations revealing a muscle strain that required treatment.
The 27-year-old was initially included in Eric Chelle’s 24-man squad for Nigeria’s opening Afcon qualifying fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
His selection came with hopes that he would recover in time to feature for Galatasaray before the international break.
However, those expectations have now suffered a setback following his continued absence.
Osimhen was not included in Galatasaray’s squad for Saturday’s Super Lig meeting with Trabzonspor, meaning he will not have the opportunity to prove his fitness ahead of Nigeria’s qualifiers.
His absence from the match also confirms that his recovery has taken longer than initially expected.
Galatasaray had communicated with the Super Eagles technical crew regarding the striker’s condition, with the Turkish club indicating that he would not be ready in time for the international fixtures.
Nigeria are scheduled to host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau four days later.
Osimhen’s absence would leave Chelle with several attacking options, including Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams and George Ilenikhena, as Nigeria begin their campaign for a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Wale Adejumo
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