Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has been ruled out of Galatasaray’s UEFA Champions League clash on Tuesday due to a hamstring injury, though the club is expected to reassess his fitness on Friday, Soccernet.ng reports.
Osimhen sustained the injury during Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against DR Congo last Sunday, forcing him off at halftime. He immediately returned to Turkey, where medical checks confirmed a minor hamstring tear. The setback was initially projected to sideline him for only a short period.
As a result, the forward missed Galatasaray’s 3–2 victory over Genclerbirligi in the Turkish Super Lig on Saturday. Despite being unavailable for selection, Osimhen was present in the stands to support his teammates and was later seen leaving the stadium alongside compatriot Henry Onyekuru.
Osimhen’s Champions League Charge Interrupted
Before the injury, Osimhen had been in outstanding form in the Champions League. After missing the opening group fixture against Eintracht Frankfurt, he featured in Galatasaray’s next three matches and delivered exceptional performances.
He currently sits top of the Champions League scoring chart with six goals, but Tuesday’s absence against Royale Union SG will be a significant blow. The Nigerian star now faces the risk of being overtaken by close competitors Harry Kane, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappé, all of whom trail him by just one goal.
When Will Victor Osimhen Return?
According to NTV Spor, Galatasaray’s medical staff will re-evaluate Osimhen on Friday to determine whether he can return in time for the highly anticipated derby against Fenerbahçe on Monday.
The Istanbul derby is one of the fiercest fixtures in Turkish football, and Galatasaray will be desperate to have their talisman available. Osimhen is widely regarded as the club’s most influential player, and his presence could be pivotal in the title race.
However, the club is expected to adopt a cautious approach to avoid aggravating the injury, prioritizing the long-term fitness of the Super Eagles forward.
