Eric Chelle Explains Surprise Osimhen Substitution After Nigeria’s Playoff Defeat

17 Nov 2025, 09:42 by Ernest Victor · Naija News

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has revealed that Victor Osimhen was substituted at half-time because the striker picked up an injury during Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying playoff loss to DR Congo in Rabat on Sunday.

Osimhen, who is widely seen as the heartbeat of Nigeria’s attack, did not return for the second half of the match despite the high stakes. Chelle opted for Akor Adams instead, a decision that immediately raised eyebrows among fans and analysts.

Naija News reports that Nigeria eventually drew 1-1 after 120 minutes, with DR Congo’s Mechak Elia cancelling out Frank Onyeka’s opener, before DRC edged the Super Eagles 4-3 in the penalty shoot-out.

As Chelle made his way out of the stadium after the match, a reporter pressed him for clarity on the decision to remove his most influential forward. His answer was short but telling. “He has an injury,” the coach said, without offering further details.

Osimhen’s absence did not go unnoticed by the Congolese players either. DR Congo defender Noah Sadiki admitted that the striker’s injury changed the momentum of the game in their favour.

“It helps [Osimhen’s injury]. We know that Osimhen is a big player. They have other qualities in front,” Sadiki said after the match. “We knew he was their star player, and if he was out, it would be a bit easier, and we practised penalties.”

With Nigeria unable to regain control after the substitution, DR Congo held firm through extra time and went on to secure the ticket to the intercontinental playoffs taking place in March 2026.