Victor Osimhen, the Nigerian striker, has received approval to join the Super Eagles squad for the highly anticipated semifinal match against South Africa. Nevertheless, there are doubts surrounding his participation in the starting lineup for this critical game.
Ademola Olajire, the Director of Communications at the Nigeria Football Federation, has reported that Osimhen, who was initially unable to travel due to stomach discomfort, has been given conditional clearance to accompany the team.
“But he has not been cleared to play. The medical team will continue to monitor him when he gets here, and they will make the final decision whether he plays or not after he is examined later tonight,” According to Olajire’s statement to ESPN.
While Osimhen has been cleared to join the team, he has not yet been given permission to play. His eligibility will be determined after a thorough evaluation by the medical staff.
The specific details regarding the cause of Osimhen’s abdominal discomfort have not been disclosed, creating an air of uncertainty surrounding the striker’s fitness.
Osimhen has been instrumental in Nigeria’s AFCON journey, playing a crucial part in four out of the team’s six goals, including a pivotal strike in the opening match against Equatorial Guinea.
Although Osimhen’s participation in the semifinal is still uncertain, Coach Jose Peseiro has a range of high-quality alternatives at his disposal, such as Kelechi Iheanacho, Terem Moffi, and Paul Onuachu.
The upcoming match against South Africa is anticipated to be fiercely competitive, as both teams strive to secure a place in the AFCON final.