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By: Ebenezer Bajela
According to a Spanish publication, Diario Sport, Nigeria international, Victor Osimhen, will be available for Napoli’s round of 16 UEFA Champions clash against Barcelona on Wednesday when both sides face off at the Diego Armando Maradona stadium, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Osimhen returned to his Italian club after helping Nigeria reach the Africa Cup of Nations final which they lost 2-1 to hosts Ivory Coast and the striker missed Napoli’s last-gasp 1-1 home draw with Genoa in Serie A on Saturday due to fatigue.
The tournament took its toll on Osimhen, who suffered stomach pains ahead of the semi-final against South Africa and was only cleared to play the day before the match.
The 25-year-old scored one goal in the tournament but his performances played an important role as Nigeria reached the final for the eighth time.
After missing Napoli’s weekend clash, the Nigerian was again a major doubt for their crucial Champions League game against the Catalan giants but a fresh insight into his well-being as reported by Dariot Sports revealed that he could be available for the encounter not for more than 50 to 60 minutes.
“We are talking, of course, about Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian striker, who has not played a match with the Partenopean team since December 23, is the great hope. He comes from playing in the final (and losing it) of the Africa Cup and arrives very physically weakened. But he arrives for Wednesday’s duel against Xavi’s team.
“He is the great star of a Naples that is absolute chaos. 27 points from the lead in Serie A, humiliatingly eliminated from the Coppa Italia with a 0-4 at home against Frosinone. Lost the Super Cup final against Inter in Arabia. Only the Champions League remains for the southern Italian club.
“Victor was not included by Mazzarri in the squad for yesterday’s (Saturday) clash against Genoa. A rest thinking about Barça. And this Sunday he trained with the group in Castel Volturno, the club’s sports city.
“Of course, according to Naples sources, “it’s for 50-60 minutes, no more.” The Africa Cup has greatly worn out the attacker, who has played almost every minute of the game (including extra time). We will see what version he offers in his reunion with San Paolo.”
Osimhen has played four Champions League games this season, scoring a goal and providing one assist.
