Chelle Reveals Why Super Eagles Star Osimhen Was Pulled Midway Through Playoff Clash

According to reports, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has explained that Victor Osimhen was substituted at half-time during Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying playoff clash against DR Congo due to an injury. The match, held in Rabat on Sunday, ended 1-1 after 120 minutes, with DR Congo ultimately prevailing 4-3 in a penalty shoot-out.

Osimhen, widely regarded as Nigeria’s key attacking threat, was replaced by Akor Adams, a move that surprised many fans and analysts given the stakes. Speaking after the match, Chelle confirmed the substitution was injury-related but did not provide further details.

The striker’s absence was noted by the DR Congo players, with defender Noah Sadiki admitting that Nigeria’s momentum shifted following Osimhen’s early exit. “We know Osimhen is a big player. His absence made it a bit easier for us, and we practiced penalties,” Sadiki said.

Despite Nigeria’s efforts, the team was unable to regain control after the substitution, and DR Congo secured a place in the intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March 2026.