The Super Eagles of Nigeria have been handed a fresh fitness worry just days before their high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal match against Algeria. Promising midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro was notably absent from the team's light training session in Marrakesh, casting a shadow over Nigeria's preparations for the Saturday, January 10 clash.
Training Ground Absence Raises Concerns
According to reports from the camp, the 21-year-old Pisa midfielder, who is on loan from Inter Milan, was advised by the team's medical staff to sit out the session. Sources close to the team indicate that Akinsanmiro is managing minor health issues, with the local weather conditions in Morocco also playing a role in his current state.
Despite the setback, the situation is not considered serious. Team doctors are confident that the young talent will be able to resume training ahead of the crucial encounter against the Desert Foxes. Akinsanmiro is yet to make his debut at this tournament, having missed all of Nigeria's matches so far against Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, and Mozambique.
Depth in Squad Provides Solace for Coach Chelle
The potential unavailability of Akinsanmiro, however, is not seen as a catastrophic blow due to the depth of the Nigerian squad. Renowned sports journalist Wale Quadri, in an exclusive comment, emphasized that head coach Eric Chelle has ample replacements for every position. Quadri praised Chelle's squad selection for the tournament as "top notch," while also expressing hope for Akinsanmiro's quick recovery, noting the player's significant potential.
Nigeria enters this match in formidable form, having remained unbeaten in four matches at AFCON 2025. Their latest victory was a commanding 4-0 win over Mozambique in the Round of 16, powered by goals from Victor Osimhen (2), Ademola Lookman, and Akor Adams.
A High-Stakes Rematch in Marrakech
The upcoming quarterfinal is a highly anticipated rematch. The two nations last met at the AFCON 2019 semifinals in Egypt, where a Riyad Mahrez free-kick sealed a victory for Algeria, who eventually finished third while Nigeria was eliminated. Both teams are currently unbeaten in this 35th edition of the tournament, setting the stage for a monumental clash in Marrakech.
Adding to the motivational fire is the message from veteran defender William Troost-Ekong. The 2023 AFCON Player of the Tournament, who experienced final heartbreak with Nigeria, has urged the current squad to seize the moment and complete the mission of winning a fourth continental title.
While the absence of Cyriel Dessers and Ryan Alebiosu was already a challenge, the Super Eagles' camp remains focused. All eyes will be on the team's final training sessions to see if Ebenezer Akinsanmiro recovers in time to potentially make his long-awaited AFCON debut or if Coach Chelle will turn to his other quality options in midfield.
