Victor Osimhen injury raises doubts over Nigeria’s AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Victor Osimhen could miss Nigeria’s opening Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers after suffering a thigh injury while playing for Galatasaray against Istanbul Basaksehir.

The Super Eagles striker was forced off in the 33rd minute of Friday’s Turkish Super Lig match at the Fatih Terim Stadium, having appeared to hurt himself while stretching to intercept a pass.

Osimhen was replaced by Barıs Alper Yılmaz after clutching his thigh. Galatasaray have not yet issued an official medical update on the injury, leaving his availability for Nigeria’s September fixtures uncertain.

The forward had made an immediate impression before his departure, scoring a spectacular goal from outside the penalty area. His effort struck the underside of the crossbar before finding the net.

Despite that bright start, Osimhen was unable to continue and left the pitch in visible discomfort. His injury history means he could face a short period on the sidelines, which would represent a concern for both Galatasaray and Nigeria.

Galatasaray are due to travel to Portugal next week to play Sporting CP in the UEFA Champions League. Osimhen’s potential absence would be a significant blow to Okan Buruk’s side as they prepare for that European fixture.

The situation will also be monitored closely by Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle, with the national team beginning their qualifying campaign later this month.

Nigeria are scheduled to face Madagascar on 23 September before meeting Guinea-Bissau four days later. The Super Eagles will be keen to make a strong start to the campaign, particularly because only one team from their group will qualify.

Nigeria have attacking options

Osimhen is Nigeria’s leading attacking threat and one of the team’s most influential players. The Super Eagles have often found it harder to play with the same fluency when he has been unavailable, making his fitness an important issue for Chelle.

However, Nigeria do have alternative forwards who are enjoying strong form with their clubs. Tolu Arokodare, Cyriel Dessers and Rafiu Durosinmi are all among the options who could help cover Osimhen’s absence if he is unable to recover in time.

The circumstances surrounding the injury remain unclear until Galatasaray provide further information. His substitution could have been a precaution taken by Buruk to avoid aggravating the problem before the club’s Champions League match.

Even so, the timing leaves both Galatasaray and Nigeria waiting for an update on one of their key attacking players. For the Super Eagles, the priority will be assessing whether Osimhen can be fit for the qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, while Galatasaray must also consider his availability for their meeting with Sporting CP.