Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has been formally invited to join Nigeria’s squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, despite currently recovering from a groin injury.
According to Galatasaray insider Ali Naci Küçük, the Turkish club has received the official invitation for the striker ahead of Nigeria’s opening AFCON qualifying fixtures.
The development comes as Nigeria begin preparations for their first AFCON qualifiers since missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup and finishing third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Although Osimhen has been included in the selection process, his participation in the matches has not been confirmed. His fitness will determine whether he can join head coach Eric Chelle’s squad.
Osimhen suffered a right groin injury during Galatasaray’s 3-2 victory over İstanbul Başakşehir on September 4. The forward scored after 16 minutes but was forced off in the 33rd minute.
Following medical examinations, Galatasaray announced that Osimhen had suffered a moderate-to-advanced strain accompanied by bleeding in the right groin area. The club said treatment had commenced and initially indicated that he was expected to return after the international break.
However, recent reports suggest that the situation could change.
Küçük reportedly said Galatasaray expect Osimhen to travel with the squad for their league encounter away to Trabzonspor. The striker could also make an appearance if required, although there is no indication that he would necessarily start the match.
The Trabzonspor fixture could therefore provide an important assessment of Osimhen’s physical condition ahead of Nigeria’s AFCON qualifiers.
Nigeria are scheduled to host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to Guinea-Bissau four days later.
The two matches are part of Group L, which also includes Tanzania. As one of the co-hosts of AFCON 2027, Tanzania have automatic qualification, leaving the other teams to compete for the remaining qualification places.
Chelle will consequently have to assess Osimhen’s condition carefully before deciding whether the striker can join the squad and, if cleared, whether he is ready to return to competitive action so soon after his injury.
