Osimhen Set to Miss Nigeria’s Opening AFCON Qualifiers

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen is set to miss Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau after failing to recover fully from an adductor injury. Osimhen was initially expected to be available for Nigeria’s first qualifying fixtures after being included in the squad selected for the September international window. However, his recovery has taken longer than anticipated, leaving the forward unavailable for the matches. The striker was also absent from Galatasaray’s league fixture against Trabzonspor on Saturday, further raising concerns about his fitness ahead of Nigeria’s qualifiers. Nigeria will face Madagascar on September 25 before taking on Guinea-Bissau four days later on September 29. The absence of Osimhen represents a significant adjustment for coach Eric Chelle, who will now have to rely on the other attacking options available to him. Osimhen remains under the care of Galatasaray’s medical team as he continues his rehabilitation. His return to action will depend on how quickly he responds to treatment and regains full fitness. The Super Eagles will be hoping to begin their qualifying campaign positively despite the absence of one of their key attacking players. Nigeria’s performance in the opening fixtures will be closely watched as the team begins its journey towards qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.