Head coach of Nigeria’s Men’s Football Team, Eric Chelle, is unsure about the health status of striker Victor Osimhen ahead of a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa.
The big match takes place on Tuesday, September 9 at 16:00 GMT at the Free State Stadium in South Africa with qualification to next year’s World Cup for either nation sure to be affected by the game’s result.
South Africa lead Group C standings with 16 points from seven games and Benin and Nigeria rank second and third respectively with 11 points and 10 points.
However, there is serious doubt about the availability of Osimhen for the South Africa game after the Galatasaray had to be substituted in the 35th minute in Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Rwanda.
Speaking in a post-game presser, Eric Chelle wasn’t certain about the extent of Osimhen’s injury and his availability for the game against South Africa.
“I can’t say much about Victor for now. He has pain in his ankle, we will see when he wakes up tomorrow. I have to also discuss with the team doctors to see whether he will be available for the (South Africa) game” Chelle said as quoted by Pan-Africa Football.
What. A. Game!
Three points secured, job well done.#SoarSuperEagles #Naija4theWin pic.twitter.com/pOfz9xRL9M— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) September 6, 2025
