Galatasaray confirm Victor Osimhen’s injury after Nigeria–Rwanda clash

By Dayo Awoniyi

Galatasaray have officially confirmed that Victor Osimhen suffered ankle ligament damage during Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Saturday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.

In a statement released on Tuesday morning, the club’s team doctor, Op. Dr. Yener İnce, disclosed that medical scans conducted at Galatasaray’s partner hospital revealed a moderate sprain involving stretching and bleeding of the ankle ligaments.

“A moderate sprain (stretching and bleeding) was detected in his ankle ligaments and the necessary treatment has been initiated in order for our football player to return to the field as soon as possible,” Dr. İnce confirmed.

The news represents a significant blow for both club and country. Osimhen, who was forced off midway through the first half against Rwanda, has been central to Galatasaray’s attacking plans since his high-profile summer move from Napoli.

The Turkish champions are eager to have their talisman back quickly as they prepare for a congested fixture schedule, starting with a return to Süper Lig action against Eyüpspor, followed by the opening of their UEFA Champions League campaign away to Eintracht Frankfurt.

For Nigeria, Osimhen’s absence is equally troubling ahead of a crucial World Cup qualifier against South Africa in Bloemfontein, where the Super Eagles must fight to keep their hopes of automatic qualification alive.