Super Eagles Striker Set to Boost Galatasaray and Nigeria as He Recovers from Hamstring Injury.

Victor Osimhen

Galatasaray has received a major boost ahead of Saturday’s Istanbul derby against arch-rivals Fenerbahçe, with star striker Victor Osimhen returning to full training after an 11-day absence due to a hamstring strain.

The Super Eagles forward, 26, sustained the injury during the African World Cup qualifying play-off final in Morocco, where Nigeria lost to DR Congo on penalties following a 1-1 draw. His timely recovery brings hope for both his club and the Nigerian national team at a crucial stage of the season.

Impact on Galatasaray’s Title Race

Osimhen’s absence was felt immediately, as Galatasaray managed only a 3-2 league win over Gençlerbirliği and suffered a 1-0 Champions League loss to Union Saint-Gilloise.

Fresh training footage released by the club shows Osimhen moving comfortably and participating in ball work, signaling that he is on track to feature in the high-stakes derby at Rams Park, where Galatasaray holds a slim one-point lead at the top of the Süper Lig table.

Club officials will decide closer to kick-off whether he starts, but even his presence on the bench would be a major emotional boost for Okan Buruk’s squad. Fenerbahçe, unbeaten in 11 league outings, remain the only team yet to lose this season, promising a fierce contest.

Significance for Nigeria and AFCON 2025

Osimhen’s return is also a key development for the Super Eagles, as coach Eric Chelle prepares to announce the preliminary squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Before his injury, Osimhen was in sensational form for Nigeria, scoring five goals across two World Cup playoff matches against Gabon and Benin Republic. His early exit against DR Congo contributed to Nigeria’s penalty shootout heartbreak and failure to secure a 2026 World Cup spot.

Now back in full training, Osimhen’s fitness offers a crucial boost for both Galatasaray and Nigeria, as they aim to finish their respective campaigns strongly.