When Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen limped off during Galatasaray’s dramatic 3-3 draw with Kasımpaşa last weekend, it sent a wave of concern through Nigerian fans.
Just moments earlier, Osimhen had delighted supporters with his first two goals for the Turkish giants, following his high-profile loan move from Napoli.
But the joy quickly turned to worry when the forward went down and had to receive treatment on the pitch before being replaced by Dries Mertens.
Galatasaray, who had surged into a three-goal lead, allowed Kasımpaşa to mount an improbable comeback and salvage a point from the match, further dampening the mood.
Victor Osimhen injury not as bad as feared
The Nigeria fanbase was left in suspense as little information emerged from Galatasaray’s camp regarding the severity of Victor Osimhen’s injury.
Many feared that the in-form striker might miss the Super Eagles’ upcoming international fixtures, especially with critical Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers looming.
Osimhen, who had previously missed World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin, made a triumphant return during Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign in June, scoring in a 3-0 win over Benin.
However, Osimhen has since offered reassurance, easing fears about his fitness. “It’s not a serious injury,” he said. “I felt a bit of discomfort and thought it was best to inform my coach.
“It would have been bad if I had stayed on and put the team at a disadvantage. I didn’t want my performance to affect the rest of the team, so I spoke to Mauro [Icardi] and the coach, which is why I was subbed off.”
This news will come as a massive relief for Nigerian fans as the Super Eagles prepare to consolidate their top spot in Group D of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers next week.
