Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen ruled out of Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers after failing to recover from a lingering groin injury.
Osimhen sustained the injury during Galatasaray’s 3-2 victory over Istanbul Başakşehir earlier this month. Medical examinations later revealed an advanced-moderate strain involving his right adductor muscle group.
Victor Osimhen ruled out
Although the 27-year-old was initially included in Eric Chelle’s squad for the September international window, his recovery has taken longer than expected. Nigerian team officials have now confirmed that he will not be available for the upcoming fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
His replacement, Taiwo Awoniyi, is returning to the Super Eagles, earning a recall for Nigeria’s 2027 AFCON qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Awoniyi’s return comes 709 days after his last appearance for Nigeria, when he featured for 16 minutes in the 1–0 win over Libya on October 11, 2024.
Nigeria will host Madagascar on September 25 before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau four days later. Osimhen’s absence means Chelle will have to rely on other attacking options as the Super Eagles begin their campaign for a place at the 2027 AFCON.
Osimhen had been enjoying a strong start to the season with Galatasaray before the injury, making his absence an important development for both club and country.
The striker will now continue his rehabilitation as he works towards a full return to competitive football for club and country.