By Ghazali Ibrahim
Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have suffered a major blow as star striker Victor Osimhen has been ruled out of Tuesday’s decisive qualifier against South Africa in Bloemfontein.
Osimhen was forced off in the first half of Saturday’s 1-0 win over Rwanda in Uyo.
Team doctors later confirmed he sustained a chin bruise and will not be fit to play or travel with the squad to South Africa.
The match is a must-win for the Super Eagles, who sit third in Group standings with 10 points, six behind South Africa.
Victory is essential to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Osimhen’s absence leaves coach Eric Chelle without his top goal threat in what is being described as a “make-or-mar” encounter for Nigeria’s World Cup campaign.
