Victor Osimhen'S Injury: Three Strikers Who Could Lead Nigeria'S Attack

 

 

Super Eagles first-choice striker Victor Osimhen is set to miss Nigeria's upcoming 2027 AFCON qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau due to a groin injury.

 

The 27-year-old centre-forward played just 33 minutes in Galatasaray's 3-2 victory over Istanbul Başakşehir on Friday before he was substituted after feeling discomfort.

 

What initially looked like a minor knock has since been confirmed as a moderate-to-advanced strain in his right adductor (groin) muscle, an injury that is expected to keep him sidelined for up to three weeks.

 

In an update released by the Turkish Super Lig champions, Galatasaray confirmed that Osimhen underwent an MRI scan and he is not expected to return to action until after the international break.

 

Top Three Osimhen Replacements

 

This will come as sad news to Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, who was counting on his in-form striker to lead the line.

 

Having being the highest goalscorer under Chelle, Osimhen's absence has created a void the manager must fill before the start of the qualifying series.

 

With that in mind, here are the top three players capable of replacing him, based on current form.

 

Akor Adams

 

Since his Super Eagles debut, Akor Adams has been the second-choice striker behind Osimhen. He is Chelle's go-to option whenever the Galatasaray man is unavailable.

 

Adams' current form for newly promoted Venezia has been modest in Serie A, where he is yet to open his account in two league appearances this season. Although, he scored twice and setting up another in Venezia's 3-2 Coppa Italia win over Modena in August. Adams is expected to lead Nigeria's attack when they host Madagascar.

 

Tolu Arokodare

 

Based on his current form, Tolu Arokodare could get the nod ahead of long-time favourite Akor Adams.

 

The lanky forward has been firing on all cylinders since his season-long loan move to Ajax from Wolverhampton Wanderers, scoring four goals and providing two assists in his first six appearances for the Eredivisie giants. 

 

Though Arokodare hasn't always impressed in the Super Eagles shirt, Eric Chelle may well consider his current form and hand him the nod to lead the line.

 

Kelechi Iheanacho

 

With six goals and two assists in five games for Bursaspor in the Turkish second division, Kelechi Iheanacho is reportedly in contention for a recall to the national team.

 

While his chances of being handed the starting striker's role are slim, the former Manchester City man possesses the experience and current scoring form to help lead the three-time African champions to victory.

 

Meanwhile, Eric Chelle is expected to release his squad list for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers in the coming weeks. 

 

Nigeria will open their Group L campaign against Madagascar in Uyo on September 23, before facing Guinea-Bissau, as the Super Eagles look to pick up maximum points and secure qualification for the tournament as soon as possible.