Nigeria’s hopes of a strong return to the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers have taken a major blow, as star striker Victor Osimhen is set to miss the crucial doubleheader against Libya, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Super Eagles’ prolific forward sustained an injury that could sideline him for the upcoming fixtures, leaving interim coach Augustine Eguavoen with the challenge of reshaping his attack.
Osimhen, currently on loan from Napoli, picked up the injury during Galatasaray’s match against Kasimpasa, where he dazzled fans by scoring a brace and netting his debut goal for the club.
Due to the injury, he missed Galatasaray’s clash with Latvian champions FC RFS, which ended in a 2-2 draw at the Daugavas Stadium.
According to A Spor, reports from the club reveal that Osimhen experienced pain in his left upper posterior muscle and is currently undergoing treatment.
“The treatment of our football player Victor Osimhen, who felt pain in his upper left posterior muscle during the Kasimpasa match in the seventh week of the Trendyol Super League, and was diagnosed with strain (strain and bleeding) in his upper left posterior muscle group during check-ups at our sponsor hospital Medicana, has begun,” read a statement from the club, as reported by A Spor.
However, reports indicate that the injury is not severe, and Osimhen is expected to return to action after the international break, likely against Antalyaspor.
In Osimhen’s absence, Eguavoen will look to call up a suitable replacement as he aims to secure vital points against Libya.
