LAGOS — Nigerian international and Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has opened up about the terrifying facial injury he sustained during a 2021 Serie A match against Inter Milan, describing the ordeal as a near-death experience that altered the course of his career.
In an emotional interview with Nigerian media personality Daddy Freeze, Osimhen recounted the brutal clash with Inter defender Milan Škriniar at the San Siro stadium. The incident occurred as both players contested a high ball in the air, resulting in a violent head-to-face collision that left the Super Eagles star with multiple fractures.
“It was a game against Inter Milan in San Siro,” Osimhen said. “My teammates crossed the ball, so I wanted to head the ball and the guy was bringing his own head and hit my face. All the bones on my face were broken.”
The impact fractured Osimhen’s cheekbone and eye socket, prompting urgent medical attention. The striker briefly lost consciousness on the pitch, only regaining awareness when Inter’s goalkeeper Samir Handanović touched him.
“I was seeing blank until their goalkeeper touched me — that was when I knew I was alive. It was a near-death injury,” Osimhen revealed.
Osimhen was immediately rushed to the hospital where X-rays confirmed the severity of the damage. Despite the pain and trauma, the striker initially resisted the idea of surgery, unaware of the long-term consequences of the injury.
“I asked our team doctor when I would play again. I never knew the injury was that bad,” he said. “Then, they did an X-ray… The doctor came and said I had to do surgery, as quickly as possible. I said I am not doing surgery. I cannot allow you to cut my face.”
Doctors eventually convinced the striker to undergo facial reconstruction through his jaw, which meant he would be unable to chew or eat solid food during recovery.
“He said no, they will go through my jaw and I cannot eat there for the rest of my life,” Osimhen recalled.
To protect his face and allow safe return to football, medical staff recommended the use of a custom protective mask — a now-iconic accessory that has become synonymous with Osimhen’s on-pitch presence.
“It was recommended and the doctor said, left for him he will keep on wearing it (the mask) till he’s done,” the striker said, indicating his continued use of the mask in Serie A and international fixtures.
Despite the harrowing experience, Osimhen made a remarkable comeback, helping Napoli to their first Serie A title in over three decades in 2023. His bravery and resilience have made him a fan favourite, both in Italy and Nigeria.
Osimhen’s revelations offer a powerful glimpse into the physical and emotional challenges elite athletes endure and the strength required to return to top-level competition after life-altering injuries.
