Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen is in a race against time to be fit for Nigeria’s crucial World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin Republic, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Super Eagles forward, who joined Galatasaray on a free transfer in the summer, did not take part in full training on Thursday as the Turkish champions stepped up preparations for their derby with Beşiktaş.
According to Fanatik, Osimhen worked individually away from the main group, raising fresh doubts about his availability for both club and country.
The 26-year-old has already endured a frustrating start to life in Istanbul this season.
An injury sustained in September’s World Cup qualifier against Rwanda sidelined him for Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with South Africa, and his recovery has dragged on longer than expected.
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He has since struggled to regain full match sharpness despite impressing and netting a decisive penalty in a 1-0 victory over Liverpool in midweek.
Nigeria’s coaching staff are anxiously awaiting updates, with manager Eric Chelle yet to release his squad list and time running out before their October fixtures.
The Super Eagles sit third in Group C, three points adrift of leaders South Africa and Benin. With only the group winners guaranteed an automatic ticket to the 2026 World Cup, failure to take maximum points from both Lesotho (October 10) and Benin (October 14) could prove disastrous.
Osimhen has made five appearances for Galatasaray this season, scoring three goals, but his influence extends far beyond numbers.
The former Napoli ace remains the focal point of Nigeria’s attack, a player whose power, pace, and finishing have carried the national team through tight contests. Without him, the Super Eagles side risk looking blunt in front of goal.
Galatasaray, meanwhile, are determined to have him available for Sunday’s clash with Beşiktaş, a match that could shape the early Super Lig title race. Manager Okan Buruk has been cautious, refusing to confirm whether his star forward will feature.
As things stand, Nigeria can only wait and hope that Osimhen is passed fit in time. The Super Eagles’ World Cup hopes may depend on it.