Osimhen ruled out of crucial World Cup qualifier against SA

Nigeria will be without key striker Victor Osimhen for Tuesday’s must-win World Cup qualifier in South Africa after a foot injury saw him miss the trip, officials confirmed on Monday.

The 2023 African Footballer of the Year is Nigeria’s lead attacker, but was hurt playing in Saturday’s 1-0 home win over Rwanda in Uyo and ruled out of the Group C showdown in Bloemfontein.

Nigeria trail leaders South Africa by six points in the standings, although South Africa are expected to be sanctioned three points for using a defaulter earlier in the qualifying campaign, making this a key game for any late comeback for the Super Eagles.

The group winner qualifies for the finals in North America next year.