After being challenged by Claude Niyomugabo halfway through the first half of Saturday’s match in Uyo, Osimhen was substituted, meaning he would not play in Tuesday’s second important match against South Africa in Bloemfontein.

The team physician verified that Victor Osimhen’s ailment was a shin bruise. Super Eagles Media Officer Promise Efoghe stated, “He will not be traveling with the squad to South Africa for Tuesday’s game because he woke up this morning (Sunday) with discomfort.”

Galatasaray has also tested its record signing further after the player returned to Turkey.

The team doctor, Slim, said in a statement posted on the club website that “a moderate level of sprain (tension and bleeding) was detected in the ankle ligaments in the examinations conducted today (Tuesday) on our football A team player Victor Osimhen in our hospital and the necessary treatment was started to return to the field as soon as possible.”

Cyriel Dessers took his place on Saturday, but the forward, who was born in Belgium, didn’t pose much of a danger to Osimhen or the Rwandans.
With his goal in the 51st minute, second half replacement Tolu Arokodare made the difference and preserved Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.

However, it’s unclear if the player will be ready for Saturday’s league matchup with Eyüpspor.

Osimhen left Napoli for Galatasaray permanently this summer in a €75 million move, following a successful loan stint the previous season.

His club leads the league with 12 points, and he has scored two goals in three league games this season.