Former Ghana striker, Asamoah Gyan, indicated that Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen faked an injury during a World Cup qualifier. Gyan made the claim following Osimhen’s absence from Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with South Africa in Bloemfontein.
Osimhen was said to have twisted his ankle ligament the week prior during Nigeria’s most recent match against Rwanda. His club, Galatasaray, confirmed the injury in a medical report. However, Gyan was not convinced of Osimhen’s claim.
“I am aware of those tactics. I think someone told him, like ‘play a little, and then go down and act like you are injured, and lay on the ground, so he can go back to Turkey, quick.’ I am sure this is done to prepare him for his next matches in Champions League,” he stated. “We will see him fresh and back and running full-speed for Galatasaray.” He went on to say that his club and medical team might be involved in this case.
Gyan’s comments have stirred controversy, as fans are now doubting the injury.
Osimhen’s absence came at a critical moment. Nigeria is now second in the standings of group C, with 2 remaining matches. They are 6 points behind leaders South Africa and are likely to be eliminated unless certain tides turn in their favour.
With the stakes so high, Gyan’s accusation adds to the already tense qualifying campaign.
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