Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has been invited to join Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, despite his ongoing recovery from a groin injury.

Nigeria head coach Éric Chelle included the Galatasaray forward in a 24-man squad announced ahead of the September international window. The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed that Osimhen is among the forwards selected for the opening Group L fixtures.

Osimhen sustained a right groin injury during Galatasaray’s league match against İstanbul Başakşehir earlier this month. He scored in the encounter but was substituted in the first half and has since been undergoing treatment.

His invitation does not necessarily mean he will feature in the matches, as his availability will depend on his recovery and fitness assessment. Reports indicate that his condition remains under observation as the international fixtures approach.

Nigeria will begin its 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on September 25. The Super Eagles will then travel to Bissau to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29.

Chelle’s squad also includes captain Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare and Akor Adams.

The squad also features first-time invitees Isaac James, George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor, while Ola Aina and Benjamin Fredricks return to the team.

Osimhen’s fitness will therefore remain a key issue ahead of Nigeria’s opening qualifiers, with the striker’s eventual participation dependent on his recovery progress.