'It's time' – Aiyegbeni challenges Arokodare, Dessers to prove themselves in Osimhen's absence

Former Super Eagles striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni has urged Tolu Arokodare and Cyriel Dessers to prove themselves when Nigeria face South Africa in Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Nigeria will be without star striker Victor Osimhen, who picked up a chin injury in the 1-0 victory over Rwanda on Saturday evening in Jos.

The Galatasaray forward has been ruled out of the crucial tie, leaving coach Eric Chelle to rely on other attacking options.

Speaking to Soccer Beat, Aiyegbeni stressed the importance of other strikers stepping up in Osimhen’s absence.

"For sure he wants to play but he's not going to be available," Aiyegbeni said. 

"We have other strikers. Like I said, it is time for the other strikers (Tolu Arokodare and Cyriel Dessers) to step up and try to be the main man so that we don't depend on one player."

The former Everton and Portsmouth forward, who scored 21 goals for Nigeria, praised Osimhen’s commitment but insisted the team cannot afford to rely on him alone.

"We know when Victor plays is going to give 90 or 100 percent of whatever he gives. 

"We know how he fights in the pitch, he wants to score goals and wants the country to win. 

"And now we have players in the team I think it is time for them to step up and make the country proud."

Nigeria are currently third in Group C with 10 points, six behind leaders South Africa.

A win on Tuesday at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein would be vital in keeping the Super Eagles’ hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup alive.

Adeyemi Adewale

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