The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers have not been short of drama, and the latest controversy surrounds Nigeria’s talismanic striker Victor Osimhen. Former Ghanaian captain Asamoah Gyan has sensationally claimed that Osimhen faked the injury which forced him off during Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Uyo last week.
Osimhen, who joined Turkish giants Galatasaray this summer in a record deal, appeared to sustain a knock midway through the first half after colliding with Rwandan defender Niyomugabo. He was substituted immediately and missed Nigeria’s crucial 1-1 draw against South Africa days later in Bloemfontein.
However, Gyan has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the injury. Speaking in an interview with Turkish outlet Habersarikirmizi, the legendary Ghanaian striker alleged that Osimhen may have exaggerated or even staged the problem under instructions from his club.
“I know these tricks,” Gyan said. “Someone must have told Osimhen, ‘Look, we spent a lot of money on you. The Champions League is coming. We don’t want you risking too much in Africa, but just go, play a bit, then get injured and lie down. Make it look serious, and the next day you’ll be back in Türkiye.’”
Nigeria’s Striker Under Scrutiny
The accusation has sparked heated debate across African football circles. Osimhen, widely regarded as one of the continent’s most valuable players, is under immense pressure to deliver for both country and club. His new team, Galatasaray, are preparing for their Champions League group stage campaign, and protecting their star signing is a priority.
But to Nigerian supporters, the suggestion that their leading striker may have put club before country strikes a nerve. With the Super Eagles now six points behind Group C leaders South Africa, every point is vital in the race for World Cup qualification. Missing Osimhen, who has been Nigeria’s top scorer for several years, has left the team weakened up front.
Gyan’s Perspective
Asamoah Gyan, Africa’s all-time top scorer at the FIFA World Cup, knows well the delicate balance between club commitments and international duty. Throughout his career, he faced criticism over prioritizing clubs in Europe and Asia over Ghana’s national team. His remarks on Osimhen, therefore, carry both weight and controversy.
“I’ve seen it happen before,” Gyan added. “Players are sometimes pressured by clubs, especially when there are big competitions ahead. It’s not always the player’s decision. But it is unfair to the national team and fans who depend on them.”
Reaction From Fans and Analysts
While some fans have defended Osimhen, citing the physical demands of back-to-back matches and his history of injuries, others are demanding clarity from both the player and Nigeria’s football authorities.
Football analyst Segun Agbede said the issue highlights a recurring problem in African football: “There is always tension between European clubs and African national teams. Clubs invest millions, and they worry about injuries. But at the same time, our countries depend on these players. It’s a battle of interests.”
On social media, Nigerian fans are divided. Some accuse Gyan of jealousy or stirring unnecessary controversy, while others fear there may be truth in his claims given Galatasaray’s need to protect their record signing.
What Next for Osimhen and Nigeria?
Nigeria coach Finidi George has yet to comment directly on Gyan’s allegations but stressed after the South Africa draw that the team must adapt when big players are unavailable. “We missed Osimhen, of course, but football is about the collective,” Finidi said.
The Super Eagles face two must-win fixtures in October to keep alive hopes of automatic qualification for the 2026 finals. Whether Osimhen will be available — and fully committed — could define their campaign.
As for Gyan, his outspoken remarks have once again put him at the center of continental football debates. Whether his claims are accurate or not, they have added another layer of drama to a qualification series already filled with tension, upsets, and high stakes.
For now, all eyes remain on Osimhen: Nigeria’s golden striker, Galatasaray’s prized asset, and the man caught between loyalty to club and country.
