2026 WCQ Playoff: Colin Udoh Explains Why Osimhen Was Removed at Halftime

Super Eagles fans were left stunned on Sunday after star striker Victor Osimhen failed to return for the second half of Nigeria’s crucial World Cup playoff clash against DR Congo. Nigeria eventually lost 4–3 on penalties, missing out on the World Cup for the second time in a row.

Speaking to ESPN, Nigerian football journalist and team insider Colin Udoh revealed that Osimhen was forced off due to a hamstring injury, which the team noticed before the restart.

According to Udoh, the Napoli forward—who has been Nigeria’s key goalscorer in the qualifiers—could not continue after the medical team confirmed discomfort around his hamstring.

“He was taken off at halftime. I got a call from inside the team, and I found out that he had a hamstring problem,” Udoh explained.
He added that he sensed trouble immediately after Osimhen left the pitch.
“The moment he went off, I just knew something was about to happen.”

Osimhen had scored five goals in his last two qualifying matches, making him the biggest attacking threat for the Super Eagles. His exit shifted the momentum completely, allowing the Congolese side to take control of the match before eliminating Nigeria on penalties.

With the World Cup dream now over, the Super Eagles will turn their attention to preparing for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to hold in December.