Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen suffered an ankle sprain while on international duty with Nigeria during Saturday’s 1-0 World Cup qualifying win over Rwanda, the club confirmed.
Osimhen was substituted midway through the first half following a challenge from Rwandan defender Claude Niyomugabo. Initial examinations by Nigeria’s medical team suggested a shin bruise, but further tests in Turkey revealed a moderate ankle sprain.
“Examinations conducted today on Victor Osimhen in our hospital detected a moderate sprain in the ankle ligaments, and treatment has begun to ensure a swift return to the field,” Galatasaray team doctor Dr. Yener Slim said in a statement.
Super Eagles Media Officer Promise Efoghe confirmed that Osimhen would not travel with the squad to face South Africa in Bloemfontein on Tuesday. “He woke up this morning with discomfort and will not be travelling with the squad,” Efoghe wrote.
During the match against Rwanda, Osimhen was replaced by Cyriel Dessers, who had limited impact. Second-half substitute Tolu Arokodare scored in the 51st minute, securing Nigeria’s victory and keeping their 2026 World Cup qualification hopes alive.
Osimhen returned to Turkey for further assessment and treatment. It remains uncertain whether he will be fit for Galatasaray’s league clash against Eyüpspor on Saturday.
The striker joined Galatasaray permanently from Napoli this summer for €75 million after a successful loan spell last season. He has scored two goals in three league appearances this season, helping the team top the table with 12 points.
