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Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen was forced to leave Nigeria's World Cup qualifier against Rwanda in the 36th minute Saturday after suffering an injury to his left ankle.
The 26-year-old forward, who started in Nigeria's lineup for the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers Group C match, went down in the penalty area after a challenge from a Rwandan defender in the 27th minute. Osimhen initially got up angrily before collapsing back to the ground in visible pain.
Medical staff attended to Osimhen on the field before determining he could not continue. The striker was visibly frustrated and upset as he was helped off the pitch, with teammates and coaching staff providing consolation. Ice treatment was immediately applied to his left ankle on the sideline.
Osimhen was replaced by Cyriel Dessers in what represents a significant blow for both Nigeria's World Cup qualifying campaign and Türkiye's champions Galatasaray.
The injury raises immediate concerns about Osimhen's availability for Galatasaray's upcoming fixtures. The Istanbul club faces Eyupspor on Sep. 14 in the Türkiye Super League, followed by a crucial Champions League match against Eintracht Frankfurt on September 18.
Medical evaluations will determine the severity of Osimhen's ankle injury and whether he will be available for either match. The striker has been a key player for Galatasaray since joining the club, and his potential absence could significantly impact their European campaign.
Nigeria was seeking to strengthen their position in Group C of the African World Cup qualifiers with the match against Rwanda. The Super Eagles need positive results in their remaining qualifying matches to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk addressed concerns about Osimhen's condition following the match, telling NOW Sport's YouTube broadcast that the club had been in touch with their star forward.
"We reached out to him (Osimhen). The information we received is that he has pain in his foot," Buruk said. "We can't say 'there's nothing wrong.' We want to bring him to Istanbul as soon as possible and have him examined."
Nigeria coach Eric Chelle told TRT Sport after the match that Osimhen was experiencing pain and that his condition would be clearer Saturday.
Galatasaray acquired Osimhen from Napoli for 75 million euros in late July, making him one of the club's most significant signings. Officials are expected to monitor his condition closely as they await further medical reports on the extent of his injury.
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