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Osimhen Ruled Out as Nigeria Head to South Africa for Pivotal Qualifier

Osimhen's absence forces a reshuffle ahead of Nigeria's pivotal trip to Bloemfontein.

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Soccer Football - Europa League - Knockout Phase Playoff - Second Leg - Galatasaray v AZ Alkmaar - Rams Park, Istanbul, Turkey - February 20, 2025 Galatasaray's Victor Osimhen reacts REUTERS/Dilara Senkaya/ File Photo

Overview

  • Team doctors ruled Victor Osimhen out after he reported discomfort following the Rwanda win, and he has returned to Galatasaray for further assessment.
  • Nigeria arrived in Bloemfontein on Sunday without their talisman, receiving a formal welcome led by Nigerian officials and NFF president Ibrahim Gusau.
  • Reports differ on the exact injury detail, but AllAfrica cites a chin bruise from Friday’s match in Uyo as the reason for his withdrawal.
  • Group C standings show South Africa on 16 points and Nigeria on 10, making Tuesday’s game critical since only group winners qualify automatically and runners-up face a playoff route.
  • Coach Éric Chelle must pick a lead attacker from Tolu Arokodare, Cyriel Dessers or Samuel Chukwueze, with Arokodare having scored the winner against Rwanda, while a pending FIFA decision on a possible South Africa points deduction remains unresolved.