Obinna Igboke: Osimhen’s Replacement for World Cup Qualifiers Gets Special ‘Gift’ From Teammates

• Obinna Igboke has been called up to the Nigerian national team as a replacement for the injured Victor Osimhen
• The star was given special treatment by his Rangers of Enugu teammates, as well as head coach Fidelis Illechukwu
• Nigeria face a herculean task as qualifying matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup return in the first week of June

After earning his first-ever national team call-up, Rangers of Enugu striker Obinna Igboke received special treatment from his teammates.

The forward was not named in Finidi George’s initial 23-man squad for the forthcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and the Benin Republic.

However, with news that striker Victor Osimhen has been ruled out of action for four weeks, the Super Eagles technical crew extended an invitation to Igboke.

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The 20-year-old has been impressive for Nigeria Professional Football League side Rangers, registering two goals and creating one assist.

Soccernet reports that the newly-invited national team player made his NPFL debut last season.

His invitation has sent a glimmer of hope for home-based players who aspire to play for the Super Eagles in the near future.

Meanwhile, the Rangers squad celebrated their own with a rare guard of honour while head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu offered some inspiring words.

The delighted Igboke thanked the team and hit the famous 'Siuuuu' celebration in style.

With five games left before the 2023/2024 NPFL season wraps up, Rangers remain atop the standings with 60 points from 33 matches.

They face a strong side next, with a trip to the South West where they take on Sporting Lagos. The encounter is billed for the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Sunday, June 2, showing on StarTimes

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Rangers also took to social media to congratulate the player. The club wrote on X:

"Yesterday, one of our own, Obinna Igboke received the incredible honour of being called up to the national team.

"This morning, during training, his teammates gave him heartfelt congratulations as he walked through a tunnel of cheers and support."

Nigeria will host against South Africa at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on June 7 before a trip to Abidjan, where they will take on Benin three days later.

Lyon interested in Ndidi

Sports Brief earlier reported that Olympique Lyon are interested in Wilfred Ndidi as a free agent this summer.

The French club attempted to sign the Leicester City star last summer, but the Foxes, who were keen to retain his services, rejected their request to take him on loan.

Lyon have identified Ndidi as a top transfer target this summer and will make another attempt to sign the Nigerian to strengthen their midfield ahead of next season.