Nigerian footballer Victor Osimhen will not attend the CAF Awards in Rabat, Morocco, on Wednesday due to a hamstring injury. The 26-year-old striker has returned to his club, Galatasaray, for a scheduled MRI scan after picking up the injury during international duty with the Super Eagles.

Osimhen was forced to miss the second half of Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup playoff final against the Democratic Republic of Congo last Sunday. The injury has now ruled him out of attending the CAF Awards, where he is nominated for the top prize. Osimhen, who won the award in 2023, is vying for the honor for the second time in his career.

This year, he faces stiff competition from Egyptian and Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah, as well as Achraf Hakimi of PSG and Morocco. The CAF Awards recognize outstanding African footballers, and Osimhen’s nomination is a testament to his impressive performance in recent years. Despite his absence from the ceremony, Osimhen’s fans will be eagerly awaiting the announcement of the winner.

The CAF Awards have been a platform for African footballers to showcase their talent and receive recognition for their achievements. The event has been held annually since 1992, and past winners include notable players such as Samuel Eto’o and Didier Drogba. The awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, with the winner of the top prize set to be announced.

Osimhen’s injury is a significant blow to his club and country, as he is a key player for both Galatasaray and the Super Eagles. His absence from the CAF Awards is a disappointment, but his focus on recovery is crucial to his future success. As the football world waits with bated breath for the announcement of the winner, Osimhen’s fans will be hoping for a speedy recovery and a return to the pitch soon. The outcome of the CAF Awards will be closely watched, and the winner will be recognized as one of the top African footballers of the year.