Concerns loom over the participation of striker Victor Osimhen in the Super Eagles’ crucial Africa Cup of Nations semi-final showdown against South Africa. The Napoli frontman’s availability has been cast into uncertainty due to abdominal discomfort, as confirmed by the team in a statement on Monday. Osimhen, 25, has remained grounded in Abidjan, unable to join his teammates in Bouaké ahead of Wednesday’s encounter.
Team officials revealed that Osimhen’s condition is being closely monitored, with a member of the medical staff attending to him in Abidjan. His potential inclusion in the squad hinges on clearance from the team’s medical personnel by Tuesday morning. Should he receive the green light, Osimhen is expected to link up with the rest of the squad before 5 pm.
Despite registering only one goal thus far in the tournament, Osimhen has emerged as a pivotal figure for the Eagles. His dynamic partnership alongside Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon has been instrumental in Nigeria’s journey to their 16th AFCON semi-final appearance. The stakes are high as Nigeria braces to square off against South Africa at the Stade De La Paix in Bouaké, with kickoff slated for 6 pm.