Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen was hopeful of returning to action for Galatasaray’s UEFA Champions League clash against Sporting Lisbon next week after suffering a groin injury in the club’s 3–2 victory over Istanbul Başakşehir on Friday.

The Nigerian forward was substituted in the 33rd minute after feeling discomfort but remained optimistic about featuring against the Portuguese side if Galatasaray’s medical and coaching staff cleared him to play.

Osimhen had earlier opened the scoring with a fine finish after being set up by Lucas Torreira before he was forced off. Galatasaray later confirmed that he had suffered strain and pain in his right adductor muscle and had commenced treatment.

The Turkish champions said Osimhen and teammate Mario Lemina were undergoing further medical examinations, including MRI scans, with the assessments expected to be completed on Sunday.

Osimhen’s availability would be a major boost for Galatasaray as they prepare for their Champions League encounter. His fitness would also be monitored by Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.