Why Victor Osimhen Was Taken Off at Halftime — Eric Chelle Explains

• Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle has explained why star striker Victor Osimhen was substituted at halftime during the tense World Cup playoff final against DR Congo, sparking fears over his fitness for AFCON and Galatasaray.

Nigeria and Galatasaray are anxiously awaiting medical updates after star forward Victor Osimhen was forced off during Sunday’s World Cup play-off final against DR Congo.

Osimhen, who started the match, was removed at halftime following what head coach Eric Chelle described as “discomfort behind his leg.”

Nigeria took an early lead through Frank Onyeka, who struck in the third minute, but Meschack Elia equalised before the break. When the Super Eagles returned for the second half without Osimhen—replaced by Akor Adams—concerns escalated among fans and analysts.

Without their talismanic striker, Nigeria struggled to create clear chances and eventually lost their World Cup qualification hopes via a penalty shootout.

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Speaking to reporters after the match, Chelle clarified the decision:
“Osimhen was substituted at half time due to the discomfort he felt behind his leg.”

A video uploaded to X shows Osimhen in tears at the halftime whistle and later limping at full-time, raising fears he may face time on the sidelines.

With the Africa Cup of Nations just over a month away, the Super Eagles will be hoping the knock is minor. Nigeria reached the final in 2024 and are aiming to go one better—an ambition heavily dependent on Osimhen’s sharpness.

Meanwhile, Galatasaray are preparing for a top-of-the-table Turkish Super Lig battle with Fenerbahce and key Champions League fixtures, making Osimhen’s fitness a major concern for both club and country.