According to a report by The Sun on Monday, November 17, 2025, Eric Chelle, the head coach of the Super Eagles, has given a clear reason for taking Victor Osimhen off at halftime during Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying playoff final against DR Congo.
The match, played in Rabat, Morocco, ended 1-1 after 120 minutes before Nigeria eventually lost on penalties.
Chelle made the early change by bringing in Akor Adams to replace Osimhen as the second half began.
Many fans were shocked by the decision because Osimhen is one of Nigeria’s most important players.
The coach later explained that Osimhen could not continue because he picked up an injury.
Chelle did not share more details but said the striker was not fit to play the remaining minutes.
The game itself was tense and emotional, Frank Onyeka scored for Nigeria, while Mechak Elia equalised for DR Congo in the second half.
Both teams created more chances, but neither could find the winning goal before the match went into extra time.
The two sides fought hard, but the deadlock remained until the penalty shoot-out, where DR Congo held their nerves better.
After the match, DR Congo defender Noah Sadiki admitted that Osimhen’s injury made things easier for his team.
He noted that the Nigerian striker is always difficult to mark, and his absence gave DR Congo more confidence as the game progressed.
With the win, DR Congo secured their spot in the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March 2026.
Nigeria, on the other hand, will now have to wait for another chance to chase their World Cup dream.
Osimhen’s condition will be closely monitored in the coming days as fans hope he recovers quickly..view more