Osimhen ruled out of Super Eagles AFCON qualifiers

Victor Osimhen has been ruled out of Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau as he continues his recovery from a muscle injury.

The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed the Galatasaray striker’s withdrawal after initially including him in the squad for the two matches.

“We wish Victor a speedy recovery,” the NFF said in a post on X through the Super Eagles’ official account.

Osimhen sustained the injury during Galatasaray’s 3-2 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir on September 4. The 27-year-old striker was substituted in the 33rd minute and has since been undergoing treatment.

His initial inclusion in Nigeria’s squad had attracted attention after Galatasaray reportedly asked the NFF to leave him out because of the injury.

The federation had maintained that the qualifiers were important and included Osimhen in its 24-man squad despite the Turkish club’s request.

However, the striker’s continued recovery has now forced the NFF to reverse its decision.

Osimhen was also absent from Galatasaray’s squad for Saturday’s Turkish Super Lig clash with Trabzonspor, raising further doubts about his readiness for the international fixtures.

Galatasaray suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat at Papara Park, with Mohamed Salah scoring twice and setting up Noah Saviolo before completing his hat-trick in the second half.

Galatasaray midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu was later sent off following a VAR review.

The defeat left Galatasaray with 13 points from six league matches, while Trabzonspor moved to 10 points.

Osimhen had made four appearances for Galatasaray this season before the injury, scoring six goals and providing two assists.

His absence will leave Nigeria without one of its leading attacking options as the Super Eagles prepare for the AFCON qualifiers.

The squad also includes Trabzonspor defender Chibuike Nwaiwu and Besiktas midfielder Wilfred Ndidi.