Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen is currently at the centre of a significant controversy in Turkey. The prolific striker faces intense criticism following allegations that he deliberately engineered a suspension.

This incident occurred just before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Osimhen is expected to join the Nigerian national team for the continental tournament.

The Incident and Immediate Fallout

The controversy stems from a late yellow card Osimhen received. This happened during his club’s Turkish Super Lig encounter against Antalyaspor on Saturday.

Before this match, the Nigerian forward was already on a disciplinary tightrope. He had accumulated bookings in previous games against Beşiktaş, Kocaelispor, and Fenerbahçe.

As a direct result of the latest caution, Osimhen will now miss his club’s upcoming league fixture. This match is against Kasımpaşa.

However, the timing of this suspension is crucial. Osimhen has been named in Nigeria’s 28-man squad for the 2025 AFCON. Consequently, he will serve his suspension during the international break. This means he can return to club action without a domestic ban hanging over him.

Allegations and Potential Disciplinary Action

Turkish outlet, Gazete Gerçek, reported that the matter might not end with a simple one-match ban. Osimhen could potentially be referred to the Turkish Football Federation’s Professional Football Disciplinary Committee (PFDK).

The report indicates that the disciplinary body may investigate the incident. Their inquiry would fall under Article 37 of the Turkish Football Federation’s disciplinary code. This specific article addresses cases where players are alleged to have “deliberately received a yellow card.”

If the committee finds the Super Eagles striker guilty, he could face a much stiffer punishment. The rules clearly stipulate severe consequences for intentionally forcing a booking.

Article 37 of the PFDK allows for a two-match ban. This applies if a player is found to have deliberately sought a caution for tactical reasons.

Impact on Club Fixtures

Should Osimhen receive further sanctions, he risks missing several crucial fixtures for his club. These potentially affected matches include clashes against İstanbul Başakşehir, Kasımpaşa, Fethiyespor, Trabzonspor, and Gaziantep FK.

The extent of his absence would depend on how far Nigeria progresses at the AFCON tournament.

Osimhen’s Focus Amidst Uncertainty

For now, Victor Osimhen remains focused on joining the Super Eagles camp. Meanwhile, his club and supporters anxiously await the outcome of the possible disciplinary review in Turkey.