It is a shame — Ex-Super Eagles star beomans Osimhen absense against South Africa

Former West Ham striker Obinna Nsofor believes Victor Osimhen's absence for Nigeria's upcoming game against South Africa is a shame, but has endorsed Tolu Arokodare and Cyriel Dessers as capable replacements.

Nigeria's 1-0 victory over Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium came with a significant setback: Osimhen was forced off in the first half with an ankle injury. Arokodare, who came on as a substitute, went on to score the winning goal.

With Osimhen now ruled out of Tuesday's game in Bloemfontein, his absence is a major blow for the Super Eagles.

Despite this, Nsofor believes the team's depth at the striker position will be key.

“It is a shame Osimhen will not be available for the South Africa and Nigeria game because he is Nigeria’s best player and would have been a huge weapon for the Super Eagles,” Nsofor told Footy-Africa.

“He is a player who has proven to be a team player, and in big games like this, his presence alone could intimidate opponents..

“However, I believe that we have talented players in the team like Tolu (Arokodare) and Dessers that can make an impact to help the team win the match in South Africa,” he concluded.

This match is far more than just another game; it's a defining moment for Nigeria's World Cup aspirations, and anything other than a win could be disastrous.

The Super Eagles currently sit in third place in Group C with 10 points from seven games.They trail group leaders South Africa, who have an impressive 16 points, and Benin Republic, who are in second with 11 points.