By Michael Madyira
Nigeria will be without Napoli forward Victor Osimhen for the upcoming 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier in Uyo.
South Africa travel to Nigeria for the grudge 7 June Group C match at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
Super Eagles coach Finidi George named his squad for the matches against Bafana and neighbours Benin last weekend, including dangermen Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
But the Napoli striker will not be available, which could leave coach Hugo Broos’ defenders relieved.
“Africa Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen, is injured and out for four weeks,” the Nigeria Football Federation announced.
“Super Eagles coach Finidi George has called up Enugu Rangers’ left back Kenneth Igboke for the World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic.”
However, the presence of Lookman, who is fresh from firing Atalanta to the Uefa Europa League triumph, could still worry Bafana defenders.
Lookman was the start of the show when his hat-trick handed Atalanta the Europa League.
Other Super Eagles strikers for Bafana to worry about are Victor Boniface, AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze, Paul Onuachu, Kelechi Ihenacho and Nice’s Terem Moffi.
While the Nigeria squad has been finalised, Bafana coach Brood is expected to name his final 23 men on Thursday.
The Belgian has already selected a provisional squad of 36 players, which he will trim.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe, another Group C contender, has released its final squad for the Bafana Bafana and Lesotho matches.
Interim coach Jairos Tapera has left out Khama Billiat after the Kaizer Chiefs star was touted to be on his way back to the national team.
The team includes regular names like former Amakhosi defender Teenage Hadebe, ex-Orlando Pirates midfielder Marshall Munetsi, and Mamelodi Sundowns left-back Divine Lunga.
Pictured above: Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen celebrating.
Image source: NFF
