The Galatasaray striker will miss matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau after failing to recover from a muscle injury.
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has been ruled out of Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches after his recovery from a muscle strain took longer than expected.
The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed that the Galatasaray forward would miss the upcoming fixtures after he failed to return to action against Trabzonspor on September 19, 2026.
Osimhen had initially been included in coach Eric Chelle’s squad because Galatasaray and the national team’s technical crew hoped he would recover in time for the international window.
However, his continued absence from club football confirmed that he would not be ready to represent Nigeria.
Awoniyi Replaces Osimhen
Coventry City striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been called up to replace Osimhen in the Super Eagles squad.
The Nigeria Football Federation announced the change on Sunday, September 20, as the team prepares for its opening qualifying matches.
Nigeria’s AFCON Qualifying Fixtures
Nigeria will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on September 25.
The Super Eagles will then travel to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
Osimhen’s absence leaves Chelle without one of his leading attacking options, although the coach still has forwards including Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Akor Adams and Tolu Arokodare.
The Galatasaray striker will continue his rehabilitation as he works towards a return to competitive football.
