Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has been ruled out of Tuesday’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash against South Africa due to injury.

The forward limped off in the 35th minute of Saturday’s 1–0 win over Rwanda in Uyo after a heavy challenge from a Rwandan defender. His early substitution immediately raised concerns about his availability for the next game, leaving head coach Eric Chelle with a major headache ahead of the Bafana Bafana encounter.

Super Eagles Media Officer, Promise Efoghe, confirmed on Sunday that Osimhen will not travel with the squad. Initial assessments on Saturday suggested only minor bruising, but the striker woke up with discomfort the following morning, ruling him out of action.

“Camp update: Team doctor confirmed Victor Osimhen’s injury is a bruise on his shin. He woke up this morning with discomfort and will not be travelling with the squad to South Africa for Tuesday’s game,” Efoghe told journalists.

The Super Eagles, currently third in Group C, desperately need maximum points in Johannesburg to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Osimhen will now return to his Turkish club, Galatasaray, for further evaluation and treatment. He faces a race against time to be fit for their UEFA Champions League opener against Eintracht Frankfurt on September 18.