Osimhen Faces Race Against Time for AFCON Qualifiers as Galatasaray Confirm Groin Injury

Victor Osimhen is facing a race against time to feature for Nigeria in the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers after Galatasaray confirmed that the striker has suffered a groin injury.

The 27-year-old was forced off in the 33rd minute of Galatasaray’s 3-2 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir on Friday after appearing to suffer discomfort in his inner thigh.

Osimhen had earlier opened the scoring in spectacular fashion in the 17th minute, firing a long-range effort that struck the crossbar before crossing the goal line.

Following medical examinations at Acıbadem Hospital, Galatasaray confirmed that the Nigeria international sustained an advanced-moderate strain to his right adductor muscle.

In a statement, the Turkish club said: “Following the completion of MR and advanced examinations at our sponsor Acıbadem Hospital, advanced-moderate level strain (bleeding and strain) has been detected in the right adductor (groin) muscle group of our footballer Victor Osimhen.

“The treatment process of our player is ongoing.”

Galatasaray did not provide a specific timeframe for Osimhen’s recovery.

Groin injuries of this nature can take several weeks to heal, raising concerns over the striker’s availability for Nigeria’s opening 2027 AFCON qualifying matches.

The Super Eagles are scheduled to face Madagascar on September 25 before taking on Guinea-Bissau four days later.

Osimhen’s availability for the fixtures will depend on his recovery progress and the outcome of further medical assessments.