Frank Onyeka addressing Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 expectations
Victor Osimhen is in the news again—sadly, not for another thunderous goal or electric performance, but for an injury that has left Nigerians, Galatasaray fans, and the entire football world a little uneasy.
The Nigerian striker has been ruled out with a moderate Grade 2 hamstring strain, confirmed after MRI scans at Acıbadem Hospital in Turkey. The injury occurred during Nigeria’s tense World Cup playoff against DR Congo, where he was forced off at halftime. That moment would later prove costly as the Super Eagles went on to lose on penalties—missing the World Cup for the second time in a row.
Osimhen overstretched his left hamstring, causing internal bleeding (hematoma). Medical experts note that this type of injury typically needs 3 to 5 weeks to heal, with some cases stretching to 6 weeks, depending on swelling and tissue damage.
Not the best timing—especially with AFCON 2025 right around the corner.
Despite the serious diagnosis, Osimhen has tried to calm the storm. Upon returning to Turkey, he reportedly said:
“My condition is not very serious.”
Of course, fans love the optimism…but hamstring injuries rarely listen to pep talks.
Before the injury, Osimhen had been on fire for Galatasaray—9 goals in 12 matches. Losing that kind of form and presence is a big hit for any team, especially in the middle of a competitive season.
Galatasaray have already started treatment and will be monitoring him closely. Their title ambitions depend heavily on how quickly he recovers.
Well… a little.
AFCON 2025 kicks off in late December. Depending on Osimhen’s recovery pace:
He could be fit just in time for the tournament
He might miss the opening games
Or—in the worst-case scenario—miss the entire competition if there are setbacks
For a player who is the heartbeat of Nigeria’s attack, this is a major concern.
The next few weeks are crucial. Osimhen’s response to treatment will determine everything—his return to training, Galatasaray’s season, and Nigeria’s AFCON hopes.
One thing is certain:
The whole of Africa will be watching.
And at Sports Market International, we’ll bring you every update, every twist, and every recovery milestone.
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