Victor Osimhen is rejoining the Nigeria national team for their important World Cup qualification matches.
The Super Eagles are facing a significant challenge to secure automatic qualification for next summer’s World Cup.
Osimhen was absent from the Super Eagles during the last international break, as coach Eric Chelle chose not to include him for the Unity Cup victory and the 1-1 draw against Russia.
One reason for the striker’s absence was that Galatasaray’s 2024-25 season did not finish until late May, and Chelle wanted to provide opportunities for some emerging local talent.
He stated that “Nigeria has many talented players, and it’s crucial to give them a chance to showcase their abilities.
“We are focused on a long-term project to establish a team identity, which involves integrating players who can quickly adapt and make contributions.
“The Unity Cup serves as a valuable opportunity to test new players and strategies as we prepare for upcoming competitions, particularly in September.”
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As anticipated, Osimhen has been promptly recalled to the Nigeria squad, joining players like Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, and Calvin Bassey for matches against Rwanda on Saturday and South Africa four days later.
The 26-year-old, who made a permanent move to Galatasaray this summer, has scored two goals in three league games so far and aims to continue his form with the national team.
Osimhen scored twice in a 2-0 victory against Rwanda in March and looked set to secure a win against Zimbabwe in the following match when he scored in the 74th minute.
However, Tawanda Chirewa equalised in the 90th minute, resulting in a draw.
This outcome leaves Nigeria six points behind Group C leaders South Africa.
With four matches remaining, the Super Eagles’ chances of automatic qualification for next summer’s World Cup will be extinguished if they do not achieve favourable results during this international window.
If South Africa defeats Lesotho on Saturday, Nigeria must win both of their matches, including the crucial encounter at the Free State Stadium, to maintain any hope of topping the group.
Nevertheless, Nigeria should still have a chance to secure at least a playoff spot when the critical fixtures in October arrive.
