Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen suffered an ankle injury during the Super Eagles’ 1-0 victory over Rwanda in their World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Galatasaray forward was forced to leave the match in the 36th minute after sustaining an injury to his left ankle following a challenge from a Rwandan defender.
The 26-year-old went down in the penalty area in the 27th minute, initially getting up angrily before collapsing back to the ground in visible pain.
Medical staff attended to Osimhen on the field before determining he could not continue. The striker was visibly frustrated and upset as he was helped off the pitch, with teammates and coaching staff providing consolation.
Ice treatment was immediately applied to his left ankle on the sideline before he was replaced by Cyril Dessers.
The injury represents a significant blow for both Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign and Turkish champions Galatasaray, who face a busy fixture schedule in the coming weeks.
Galatasaray are set to face Eyupspor on 14 September in the Turkish Super League, followed by a crucial Champions League match against Eintracht Frankfurt on 18 September.
Medical evaluations will determine the severity of Osimhen’s ankle injury and whether he will be available for either fixture.
The striker has been a key player for Galatasaray since joining the club, and his potential absence could significantly impact their European campaign.
For Nigeria, Osimhen’s injury adds to the challenges facing coach Eric Chelle as the Super Eagles seek to secure their place at the 2026 World Cup.
The team’s next crucial fixture is against group leaders South Africa in Bloemfontein on Tuesday, where they will be hoping for positive news regarding their star striker’s fitness.
