The Super Eagles suffered a significant setback ahead of their upcoming friendly matches against Ghana and Mali as Napoli forward Victor Osimhen has withdrawn from both encounters.
Osimhen’s absence comes after concerns arose about a potential injury when he remained on the bench during Napoli’s recent fixture against Serie A leaders Inter Milan.
Napoli manager Francesco Calzona revealed that Osimhen has inflammation in an old injury scar, which could sideline him for a couple of weeks.
According to Complete Sports, The 25-year-old, still recuperating from an injury sustained during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, will undergo a recovery period at Castel Volturno to regain full fitness.
Napoli striker suffers injury blow
In light of Osimhen’s withdrawal, the Super Eagles, currently without a coach, will face Ghana in an international friendly on March 22 at the Grand du Stade Marrakech, followed by a match against Mali four days later at the same venue.
However, the team faces additional setbacks as Luton Town defender Gabriel Osho and Empoli star Tyronne Ebuehi have also pulled out due to injury setbacks.
Osho, receiving his debut call-up, sustained an injury in a Premier League game and will be sidelined for at least two weeks.
Meanwhile, Ebuehi suffered a severe blow as Empoli confirmed his season-ending injury, having suffered a partial tear on the anterior cruciate ligament of his right knee in a recent Serie A clash.
Additionally, Chuba Akpom, despite his availability, opted not to join the Super Eagles during the international break.
The 26-year-old, who recently pledged allegiance to Nigeria after representing England at youth levels, chose to spend time with his family in London after being left out of the squad once again.
Akpom expressed his desire to don Nigeria’s green and white jersey, but he has not received a call-up since 2019.
The absence of key players like Osimhen, Osho, Ebuehi, and Akpom presents a challenge for the Super Eagles, who must regroup and adapt ahead of their upcoming fixtures.
The team will aim to overcome these setbacks and deliver strong performances against Ghana and Mali as they continue their preparations for future competitions.