Former Super Eagles coach Samson Siasia has shed light on why Rwandan players appeared to deliberately target Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen during Nigeria’s narrow 1-0 victory over the Amavubi on Saturday.
Osimhen, who plays for Turkish giants Galatasaray, was injured in the first half of the fiercely contested match held at the Uyo Township Stadium in Akwa Ibom State. He was subsequently substituted by Cyriel Dessers, leaving fans anxious about his availability for Nigeria’s next game.
Earlier, Nigerian coach Eric Chelle expressed doubts over Osimhen’s fitness ahead of Tuesday’s crucial qualifier against South Africa at the Free State Stadium.
Reports from New Daily Prime later confirmed that Osimhen has been ruled out of the fixture.
Speaking during an analysis on Super Sports, Siasia explained that the Rwandan side had a clear game plan to neutralise the threat posed by Osimhen.
“Of course, they knew exactly what they were doing. He was causing them a lot of problems so they had to take him out,” Siasia said.
“It was how the Rwandans wanted to play. So that was a very good game plan for them.”
Osimhen’s injury represents a significant blow for the Super Eagles, as he is widely regarded as a key impact player for the three-time African champions. His absence will be keenly felt as Nigeria prepare to face Bafana Bafana in what promises to be a pivotal encounter.
The Nigerian squad is now en route to South Africa without their talismanic striker, and all eyes will be on how the team adjusts in his absence.
