Shocking Backlash: Why Nigerian Officials Are Fuming Over Osimhen’s Substitution In Crucial World Cup Qualifier

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has been left in no doubt about the expectations surrounding star striker Victor Osimhen after top Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) officials confronted him over his late-game decision to substitute the Galatasaray forward during Friday’s tense 2-1 win over Lesotho in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The incident has sparked controversy, with officials issuing a clear directive: keep Osimhen on the pitch if he’s fit.

The Controversial Sub: Ajayi In, Osimhen Out

With Nigeria clinging to a slender lead—courtesy of goals from William Troost-Ekong and debutant Akor Adams—Chelle opted to replace Osimhen with defender Semi Ajayi in the 89th minute at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa. 2 The move aimed to shore up the defense and see out the victory against a resilient Lesotho side, but it backfired in the eyes of the brass. Sources say the substitution “literally dropped the energy level of the team,” as Osimhen’s commanding presence was deemed irreplaceable for its psychological edge on opponents and teammates alike.

An NFF insider, speaking exclusively to Sporblits, revealed the immediate backlash: “The top shots did not take kindly to Victor being replaced in the match and they even confronted the coach on this.” The standing order is now explicit: “As long as he is fit, he should be kept on the pitch because his mere presence not only scares opponents but galvanises his fellow teammates.”

Osimhen’s Passion Undimmed from the Sidelines

Even from the bench, Osimhen’s influence lingered. The source noted: “You could see how he was pushing the team from the bench when he was changed and even after the match you could see how he was addressing the squad in the huddle on the pitch with so much passion.” The 26-year-old, fresh off a hamstring injury that sidelined him for months, has been a talisman since his return, scoring three goals in qualifiers and anchoring Nigeria’s attack alongside Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon.

Ironically, these same officials once pleaded with an injured Osimhen to join the squad for last month’s draw against South Africa in Bloemfontein, underscoring his indispensable status.

Pressure Mounts Ahead of Benin Decider

The win lifts Nigeria to third in Group C with 14 points, three behind leaders Benin Republic (who beat Rwanda 1-0) and one off second-placed South Africa (held 0-0 by Zimbabwe). 2 Tuesday’s home clash with Benin in Uyo is now do-or-die for automatic qualification, and Chelle’s tactical choices will be under the microscope. With Osimhen fit and firing, expect him to see out the full 90—officials’ orders.

This episode highlights the intense scrutiny on Chelle, who took over amid Nigeria’s rocky start to qualifiers. Fans on social media are divided: some back the coach’s pragmatism, others echo the NFF’s protectiveness over their golden boy.