Victor Osimhen out of Nigeria's squad for World Cup 2026 qualifiers

It has been confirmed that Victor Osimhen will not be available for Nigeria before the World Cup 2026 qualifier fixtures against South Africa and Benin.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria's official social media platform made the official announcement on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, confirming that Victor Osimhen will not be available for selection following an injury he picked up which will keep him out of all football activities for the next four weeks.

The national team of Nigeria, known as the Super Eagles, is scheduled to play against South Africa's national team, the Bafana Bafana, at the Akwa Ibom Stadium in Uyo. An away match against the Benin Republic will follow this.

The matches are part of match days 3 and 4 in the campaign to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled from June 3 to 11, 2024. The Super Eagles of Nigeria squad for the World Cup 2026 qualifiers will take on a new shape following the confirmed absence of Victor Osimhen.

Victor Osimhen who did not start for Napoli in their Serie A fixture during the week seems to be under observation by Napoli as he only managed to play 25 minutes for the club before the final whistle. With his recovery date slated for four weeks it is expected he returns for subsequent games before the new season starts.

Who will replace Victor Osimhen in Nigeria's World Cup 2026 qualifiers squad?

It has been confirmed that a home-based player, Kenneth Igboke, will replace Victor Osimhen on the list of players for the World Cup 2026 qualifiers. The official statement stated, "Africa Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen is injured and out for 4 weeks. Super Eagles’ Coach Finidi George has called up Enugu Rangers’ left back Kenneth Igboke for the WC qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Rep."

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