Osimhen blow rocks Nigeria: Super Eagles hero out for 5 weeks, in danger of missing AFCON 2025

Nigeria forward Victor Osimhen has suffered a major injury setback that could sideline him for weeks and put his participation in AFCON 2025 at risk. 

Galatasaray have confirmed that the Super Eagles star sustained a moderate Grade 2 hamstring strain during Nigeria’s recent World Cup playoff clash against DR Congo.

MRI scans performed at Galatasaray’s sponsor hospital, Acıbadem, revealed overstretching and bleeding in Osimhen’s left posterior hamstring muscle following a forced substitution against the Leopards on Sunday night. 

According to a Sports Doctor on social media, this type of injury typically requires 3 to 5 weeks of recovery before a player can return to full training and competition, though cases with hematoma can take up to 6 weeks.

Despite the grim diagnosis, Osimhen himself has sought to reassure fans. Upon returning to Turkey from international duty, as reported by Pulse Sports Nigeria. 

As he said; “My condition is not very serious,” expressing optimism about a speedy recovery though further scans were pending.

The 26-year-old forward was forced off at halftime during the tense playoff final, a substitution viewed as costly as Nigeria lost in a penalty shootout and missed out on the World Cup for the second consecutive time.

Osimhen has been in scorching form for Galatasaray this season, scoring nine goals in 12 appearances across all competitions, making his injury a significant blow to both club and country.

The timing of the injury raises doubts about his availability for AFCON 2025, set to start in Morocco in late December. Recovery timelines suggest he could miss the initial matches or the entire tournament if setbacks occur.

Galatasaray have begun treatment immediately and will closely monitor his progress. Fans and the Super Eagles’ coaching staff will be hoping for a swift, complication-free recovery to see the talismanic striker back in action as soon as possible.