Nigeria’s hopes of securing a crucial win in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign have taken a massive hit, with star striker Victor Osimhen ruled out of Tuesday’s showdown against South Africa in Bloemfontein.

The Super Eagles edged Rwanda 1-0 on Saturday in Uyo, thanks to a second-half strike from Wolves forward Tolu Arokodare. However, the victory was overshadowed by Osimhen’s early exit after a painful collision left him with a shin injury. Though he initially tried to soldier on, the Galatasaray striker was substituted before halftime, raising immediate concerns.

Coach Eric Chelle admitted after the game that the medical team needed more time to assess Osimhen, but reports later confirmed the 25-year-old did not travel with the squad to South Africa. Instead, he was flown back to Istanbul on Sunday, where Galatasaray doctors will continue his treatment.

Osimhen’s absence is a huge setback for Nigeria, who are fighting to stay in contention for an automatic qualification spot. The Super Eagles currently sit third in Group C, trailing South Africa and Benin.

Galatasaray, meanwhile, will also be keeping a close eye on their talisman’s recovery, with a league game against Eyupspor this weekend and a crucial Champions League opener against Eintracht Frankfurt on September 18.

For now, Nigeria will have to find a way forward without their top scorer in what could prove to be a decisive clash on the road to the World Cup.