Super Eagles suffer Osimhen blow as striker tests positive for Covid-19

The Super Eagles of Nigeria has been dealt another blow in their preparation for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, after star striker Victor Osimhen tested positive for Covid-19.

The competition is scheduled to be held in the Central African country of Cameroun and kicks off in January 2022.

According to a statement by his Italian club, Napoli, the striker is asymptomatic and has begun a period of self-isolation, Napoli confirmed on their official website.

“SSC Napoli have announced that Victor Osimhen has tested positive for Covid-19 but is asymptomatic. Dr. Tartaro was due to perform a check-up on the player tomorrow.

Also Read: Osimhen, Dennis, 26 make Super Eagles cut for AFCON 2021

 “Consequently, the local authorities have ordered that Osimhen self-isolate and his check-up will be rescheduled after he has tested negative and his period of isolation ends”. The statement from the Serie A club read.

This news comes as a big blow to Super Eagles preparations for Cameroon 2021 as the 23-year-old is expected to lead the attack line of the three-time African champions.

With the positive Covid-19 test, Osimhen he could miss the 2013 African champions’ opening Group D fixtures against Egypt on January 11 and Sudan on January 15 at the Roumde Adjia Stadium in Garoua.

The Napoli hitman was named in Eguavoen’s 28-man squad for the – 33rd edition of the African football showpiece after the former Lille star dispelled any concerns over his fitness, claiming that he was fit.

“I will be available for AFCON at 100 percent unless I am not amongst the players selected to represent Nigeria.” He wrote on Twitter.

The Super Eagle was injured during the Parthenopeans 3-2 Serie A defeat to Inter Milan on November 23rd 2021. At the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza. Following a clash of heads with defender Milan Skriniar.

A match the Nigerian striker could not complete due to the severity of the injury he sustained. He was replaced by Andrea Petagna four minutes before the hour mark.

He later underwent surgery and the Italian outfit confirmed he would be out for at least three months.

“Victor was operated on his cheekbone and eye socket by Gianpaolo Tartaro. Who was assisted by Dr Mario Santagata with Dr Raffaele Canonico also present.” The club statement read.