Super Eagles: 3 strikers who can replace Victor Osimhen against Tanzania

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has been handed an injury blow ahead of the International break, giving Eric Chelle another selection headache on who to call up as a replacement for his most reliable goalscorer.

The Galatasaray forward sustained a strain in his left knee during the UEFA Champions League meeting with VfB Stuttgart after slipping off the pitch at RAMS Park, with several fans blaming the club for causing harm to their own player.

MRI examinations also detected a loose body, and the 27-year-old is scheduled to undergo arthroscopic surgery at Maslak Acıbadem Hospital.

His absence would be a significant setback for Nigeria, considering he missed the September International break as well with a thigh injury.

The Super Eagles need positive results in their November double-header after losing 3-0 to Guinea-Bissau in September.

However, Chelle has several attacking options who could step into the centre-forward position. Three names stand out.

3 Super Eagles strikers who can replace Victor Osimhen

1. Tolu Arokodare: The physical alternative

Arokodare has arguably made the strongest case for a starting opportunity through his performances at Ajax.

The 25-year-old has adapted impressively since joining the Dutch club on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers, reaching 12 goals and four assists in 16 appearances across all competitions after scoring twice and providing an assist in Ajax’s 6-1 victory over Midtjylland on 5 November.

Standing at 1.97 metres, Arokodare’s physical presence could help Nigeria against Tanzania, particularly if the visitors defend deep and make it difficult for the Super Eagles to find space centrally.

His aerial ability, strength in holding up possession and willingness to occupy opposing centre-backs could also allow Ademola Lookman and Moses Usor, if fit, to exploit the spaces around him.

Unlike Osimhen, Arokodare is not as explosive when attacking space behind defenders, but he could provide a different attacking reference point, allowing Akor Adams to run into space instead.

2. George Ilenikhena: Pace and goalscoring instinct

Ilenikhena is another option Chelle should seriously consider. The Al-Ittihad forward has enjoyed an impressive start to the campaign, recording eight goals and three assists in 15 games for the Saudi Pro League side.

The 20-year-old offers something different from Arokodare. His movement, acceleration and instinctive finishing could help Nigeria stretch Tanzania’s defensive line rather than relying exclusively on crosses and deliveries into the box.

He also has the advantage of having already scored on his Super Eagles debut against Madagascar in September.

He remains inexperienced on the international scene, but his club form suggests he deserves an opportunity to take on greater responsibility.

3. Kelechi Iheanacho: Experience and flexibility

Iheanacho might not offer the same physical presence as Arokodare or the explosive movement of Ilenikhena, but his experience and versatility could make him a valuable option.

The Bursaspor forward has been in remarkable goalscoring form in Turkey’s second division, scoring 16 goals in his first 12 league appearances by the end of October.

He also found the net for Nigeria in the 3-3 international friendly draw against Russia, reminding Chelle of his ability to contribute at international level.

More importantly, Iheanacho can operate as a central striker or drop deeper to link play with the attacking midfielders.

That flexibility could be useful in Chelle’s 4-3-1-2 or 4-4-2 diamond systems, where the striker needs to combine with a partner and create space for runners from midfield.

Who should replace Osimhen?

Arokodare currently has the strongest claim to lead the attack, given his goalscoring form and physical qualities.

Ilenikhena would provide a more mobile alternative, while Iheanacho offers experience and the ability to operate in different attacking positions.

Osimhen’s absence will undoubtedly weaken Nigeria’s forward line, but Chelle has enough options to avoid relying on one replacement to reproduce everything the Galatasaray striker brings.