head-to-head: Tolu Arokodare and Cyriel Dessers. Copyright: Imago

Nigeria’s preparations for Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against South Africa have been dealt a blow following the confirmation that Victor Osimhen will not travel with the squad, Soccernet.ng reports.

The former Napoli striker, who picked up a knock during Saturday’s 1-0 win over Rwanda, has been diagnosed with a bruise on his shin and will be scheduled for further treatment.

The Super Eagles must now find a suitable replacement for their talismanic forward, and while Cyriel Dessers stepped in during the Rwanda clash, there is a strong case for Tolu Arokodare to lead the line against South Africa.

Is Arokodare’s Physique an Edge?

Against Rwanda, the Amavubi Stars approached the game with a rugged, physical style that unsettled Nigeria’s frontline.

In such contests, aerial presence became a vital asset. Arokodare, who now plies his trade with Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League, offers exactly that.

Standing tall at 1.97 m, the 24-year-old is that kind of player who can trouble aggressive defenders.

His debut goal against Rwanda—scrambling the ball over the line in a crowded penalty area—proved his presence was felt in the game.

Against a physical South African backline, the style of the former KRC Genk player could be the difference.

TEA well served ☕️ pic.twitter.com/03eNcWbp9Z

— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) September 6, 2025

Dessers Limited Impact

Dessers has experience and work rate on his side, but his cameo against Rwanda showed limitations of his game in the Super Eagles’ current setup.

The former Rangers striker struggled to get service in the final third, often dropping deep without stretching Rwanda’s defence.

Without a doubt, Dessers offers mobility. But his lack of aerial dominance and hold-up play that Osimhen typically brings to Nigeria’s attack might not be a threat to the Bafana Bafana’s defensive setup.

South Africa is expected to match Nigeria’s physicality, and Dessers may not provide what is required to unsettle Hugo Broos’ men.

Tactical Fit for South Africa

Following Osimhen’s blow, Eric Chelle faces a tactical dilemma in Osimhen’s absence, but Arokodare’s power at the heart of the opponent’s defense makes him a more natural replacement.

His ability to contest aerial duels and create space for wide forwards like Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon could prove invaluable.

Moreover, Arokodare scored on his competitive debut, which has given him confidence, and is expected to hand him a starting role against South Africa ahead of Dessers.