Nigerian football supporters are experiencing growing anxiety as star striker Victor Osimhen has failed to report to the Super Eagles training camp in Morocco, with just two days remaining before the crucial 2026 World Cup playoff encounter against Gabon.
Race Against Time for Super Eagles
The Nigerian national team is facing a potential crisis as their most important attacking player remains absent from camp. According to official updates from the Super Eagles' social media channels, 21 out of the 24 players invited by head coach Eric Chelle have already arrived in Rabat, Morocco, and begun intensive preparations for Thursday's must-win match.
Key stars including Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Wilfred Ndidi, Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare, and Olakunle Olusegun have all been confirmed present at the training facility. However, Osimhen joins Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and one other unnamed player as the only squad members yet to report for duty.
Osimhen's Critical Role in Nigeria's Campaign
The absence of the 26-year-old Napoli striker is particularly concerning given his exceptional form this season. Osimhen has scored nine goals across all competitions and currently leads the UEFA Champions League scoring charts with six goals, according to Transfermarkt statistics.
His importance to the Super Eagles was dramatically demonstrated during the qualifying phase, where he delivered a spectacular hat-trick against Benin Republic in Nigeria's final qualifier. That 4-0 victory secured Nigeria's place in the playoffs as one of Africa's four best runners-up, alongside DR Congo, Cameroon, and Gabon.
The Napoli forward finished as Nigeria's top scorer in the World Cup qualifiers with five crucial goals, making his potential absence a significant blow to the team's attacking plans.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Anxiety
Nigerian supporters have taken to social media platforms to express their concern about Osimhen's whereabouts, with many questioning why the prolific striker hasn't arrived in camp despite his usual promptness.
One anxious fan tweeted: "Waiting dey happen we never see Osimhen ??? Abi him don enter wrong flight ?? please someone should check on that man for me very important ????♂️??♂️."
Another supporter emphasized Osimhen's indispensability, stating: "Don't drop the next list if victor isn't there."
The concern reflects the understanding among Nigerian fans that Osimhen's presence could be the decisive factor in what promises to be a tightly contested encounter against Gabon.
High Stakes for Super Eagles in Morocco
Despite Osimhen's delayed arrival, the Super Eagles camp continues with rigorous preparations in Rabat. The team is conducting tactical sessions and fitness routines focused on countering Gabon's strengths while maximizing Nigeria's offensive capabilities.
The upcoming match represents a critical juncture in Nigeria's World Cup qualification journey. Thursday's semi-final winner will face either Cameroon or DR Congo in the CAF playoff final on November 16, with victory guaranteeing progression to the Intercontinental playoffs in Mexico.
Only two teams from the African playoffs will ultimately qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding immense pressure to Thursday's encounter in Morocco.
The Confederation of African Football has released updated regulations for the single-leg playoff, clarifying the procedures that will govern one of Africa's most anticipated qualifiers as Nigeria seeks to return to world football's biggest stage.
