Top Nigerian football officials have been left hot and furious with Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle for substituting striker Victor Osimhen in Friday’s crucial 2026 World Cup clash against Lesotho.

Osimhen was replaced in the 89th minute by defender Semi Ajayi as Eric Chelle tried to lock out Lesotho from drawing level with the game precariously hanging at 2-1 in favour of Nigeria.

They have therefore warned the coach that as long as the Galatasaray star striker is not injured, he should not be substituted because his removal literally dropped the energy level of the team

“The top shots did not take kindly to Victor (Osimhen) being replaced in the match (vs Lesotho) and they even confronted the coach on this,” a source, who was present at the game in Polokwane informed only SCORENigeria.

“They have since ordered that as long as he is fit, he should be kept on the pitch because his mere presence not only scares opponents but galvanises his fellow teammates.”

The source added: “You could see how he was pushing the team from the bench when he was changed and even after the match you could see how he was addressing the squad in the huddle on the pitch with so much passion.” (SCORE Nigeria)