Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen will miss Nigeria’s upcoming AFCON qualifying matches against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau due to a lingering groin injury.

The 27-year-old was initially named in Eric Chelle’s squad, but his recovery has taken longer than expected.

Super Eagles media officer Promise Efoghe says Osimhen’s rehabilitation is still ongoing after he suffered a muscle strain while playing for Galatasaray earlier this month.

Osimhen was forced off after 33 minutes against Istanbul Basaksehir on September 5 and has missed Galatasaray’s recent matches.

Nigeria will face Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on September 25 before travelling to Guinea-Bissau four days later.

Taiwo Awoniyi has been called up as Osimhen’s replacement for the qualifiers.