Eric Chelle confirms what happened to Victor Osimhen before DR Congo heartbreak

Eric Chelle has revealed the reason Victor Osimhen was substituted before Nigeria’s heartbreaking defeat to DR Congo in the African World Cup playoff final. 

The Super Eagles fought bravely but ultimately fell short in a sudden-death penalty shootout, allowing the Leopards to continue their quest for a second appearance at the FIFA World Cup finals.

Sunday night’s tense final held at the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan stadium in Rabat saw Nigeria take an early lead in just the third minute. A cross from Zaidu Sanusi was flicked on to Frank Onyeka, whose shot deflected into the Congolese net. 

Nigeria then pushed forward with intensity. Stand-in captain Wilfred Ndidi tested the keeper, though his shot went wide, and DR Congo nearly equalized from a free-kick that went over the bar.

Osimhen was active early on, darting down the right flank in the 31st minute and sending a dangerous cross that the goalkeeper saved. But just a minute later, DR Congo drew level when Meshak Elia outpaced Ndidi to finish past goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali after Nigeria lost the ball in midfield.

Osimhen did not return after halftime, causing concern among fans and teammates. Now, coach Eric Chelle has confirmed that the 26-year-old was forced off due to injury. In a video posted on Instagram after the match, Chelle said simply, “He has an injury.”

The battle continued with goalkeeper Nwabali making several crucial saves, including one from a header by the Leopards in extra time. Both teams missed their first two penalty kicks, Calvin Bassey and Simon Moses for Nigeria, while DR Congo converted theirs. 

Despite goals from Jerome Akor, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Chidera Ejuke, defender Semi Ajayi had his penalty saved, allowing DR Congo to score their final kick and secure qualification for the Intercontinental Playoff in Mexico.

Osimhen’s injury and the missed penalties made for a painful end to Nigeria’s World Cup dreams, but the team fought with passion until the very last moment.