Colin Udoh, a close source in the Super Eagles camp, has explained why Victor Osimhen did not return for the second half during Nigeria’s World Cup playoff match against DR Congo in Rabat on Sunday.
Nigeria lost 4–3 on penalties and missed the World Cup for the second time in a row. Many fans were surprised when Osimhen, who has been the team’s top performer with five goals in his last two games, was removed at half-time and replaced by Akor Adams.
Udoh told ESPN that Osimhen suffered a hamstring injury, which forced the coach to take him off.
He said, “I got a call from the team, and they told me Osimhen had a hamstring problem. That was why he didn’t come back after the break.”
Udoh noted that Nigeria hardly loses when Osimhen plays, scores, or gives an assist. He added that the moment Osimhen left the pitch, he knew the game could change—and it did, as DR Congo took control and knocked Nigeria out.
The Super Eagles will now shift attention to preparing for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations coming up in December.
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