AFCON: Osimhen misses trip to AFCON semifinal venue

Concerns have arisen regarding the availability of striker Victor Osimhen for the Super Eagles’ Africa Cup of Nations semi-final showdown against South Africa.

As per a team statement issued on Monday, the Napoli striker is experiencing abdominal discomfort and has not accompanied the squad to Bouaké, the location of Wednesday’s crucial match.

The 25-year-old may potentially rejoin the team on Tuesday pending clearance from the team’s medical staff.

“Team members made the journey from Abidjan to Bouaké today via an Air Cote D’Ivoire flight at 10 pm. Unfortunately, Osimhen was unable to travel due to abdominal discomfort. Our medical team has confirmed his condition and is closely monitoring him, with a member of the medical staff staying behind in Abidjan. If deemed fit by tomorrow morning, he will reunite with the squad before 5 pm,” the statement clarified.

Despite tallying just one goal in the tournament thus far, Osimhen has been a standout performer for the Eagles. His partnership upfront alongside Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon has significantly contributed to the team’s advancement to their 16th AFCON semi-final.

Nigeria is scheduled to square off against South Africa at the Stade De La Paix in Bouaké at 6 pm.