Former Ghanaian striker, Asamoah Gyan, has stirred controversy after accusing Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen of faking injury to avoid playing in the Super Eagles’ 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa.

Osimhen, who currently plays for Galatasaray, picked up a leg injury during Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Rwanda last weekend and returned to his club for treatment. As a result, he missed the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw with Bafana Bafana on Tuesday at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.

Galatasaray later confirmed that the 26-year-old striker had sustained an ankle ligament injury. However, Gyan insists the injury may have been staged, suggesting pressure from Osimhen’s European club could be behind the decision.

“I know these tricks. Someone said to Osimhen, ‘Look, we spent a lot of money on you. The Champions League is coming up. We don’t like you going to Africa, but go there and play a bit, then get injured and act like it’s serious. The next day, you’ll be in Türkiye,’” Gyan was quoted as saying by Habersarikirmizi.

Osimhen, one of Nigeria’s most influential players, has yet to respond to the allegation. His absence in the South Africa clash left fans disappointed as the Super Eagles continue to battle for a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.