Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has moved to replace injured striker Victor Osimhen ahead of Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches in September.According to a report by owngoalnigeria, Osimhen picked up an injury over the weekend, ruling him out of Galatasaray’s UEFA Champions League clash with Sporting Lisbon and potentially the club’s next two league fixtures.Although the striker has not completely ruled himself out of the Super Eagles’ squad, his fitness remains a major concern ahead of Nigeria’s qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.Nigeria will host Madagascar in Uyo on September 23 before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau four days later.In anticipation of Osimhen’s possible absence, Chelle has reportedly contacted Coventry City forward Taiwo Awoniyi to join the squad as a replacement.Awoniyi is expected to provide another attacking option alongside Genk forward Rafiu Durosinmi, Venezia striker Akor Adams, and Hamburg forward Terem Moffi.The final decision on Osimhen’s involvement will depend on his recovery ahead of the qualifiers.
