Injured Osimhen doubtful for Nigeria versus Libya AFCON qualifier

Unless a miracle happens, Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, may not be available for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifying games between Nigeria and Libya.

The Super Eagles, who are topping their group, will face Libya at the Akwa Ibom International Stadium, Uyo, on October 11 and fly to Tripoli for the return leg four days later.

Osimhen is said to have begun treatment for an injury he sustained during Galatasaray’s 3-3 draw against Kasimpasa in the Turkish Super Lig on Sunday, putting a huge doubt on his participation in the Nigeria versus Libya Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

A statement on Galatasaray’s official website revealed that Osimhen felt discomfort in his upper left thigh during the match, prompting further medical examinations at the club’s sponsor’s hospital.

The tests confirmed a strain and minor bleeding in the muscle group. “The treatment has commenced for our football player, Victor Osimhen, who felt pain in his upper left posterior muscle during the Kasımpaşa match in the seventh week of the Super Lig, and who was diagnosed with a strain and bleeding in that muscle group during his check-ups at our sponsor hospital Medicana today,” the club’s statement read.

Osimhen’s recovery timeline remains uncertain, and his availability for Nigeria’s AFCON qualifiers doubleheader against Libya is now in serious doubt.
The 24-year-old forward is currently undergoing treatment and rehabilitation in Istanbul.
Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray on loan this summer, opened his goal account for the club in the Kasimpasa game, scoring a brace before being forced off due to injury early in the second half.
Also doubtful for the matches, according to Bold Sports, is defender Olisah Ndah, following an injury he sustained playing for his South African side, Orlando Pirates.

The Super Eagles currently lead their qualifying group following a 3-0 victory over Benin Republic and a goalless draw against Rwanda.

Super Eagles interim coach Austin Eguavoen is expected to name his squad for the AFCON qualifying doubleheader against Libya tomorrow.