The Nigeria national football team, the Super Eagles, has been dealt a significant setback in their Africa Cup of Nations campaign. Striker Cyriel Dessers has been forced to withdraw from the squad's camp after sustaining a thigh injury, casting doubt on his availability for the upcoming knockout stages.
Training Session Reveals Squad Status
The team intensified their preparations for the Round of 16 with a training session held on Friday evening. A total of 25 players participated in the session, but the group was notably missing the influential forward. The injury, described as a thigh problem, was severe enough to necessitate Dessers's immediate return to his club for specialized treatment and rehabilitation.
Other Fitness Concerns in Camp
Dessers was not the only player sidelined during the crucial practice. Defender Ryan Alebiosu was present but did not take part in drills as he continues his recovery from a leg injury. Additionally, midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi was absent, battling a cold and illness that kept him out of the session.
On a more positive note, the medical team reported no fresh injury concerns from the session. Key players who are vital to Nigeria's hopes were all actively involved. This included star striker Victor Osimhen, winger Ademola Lookman—who has already netted twice in the tournament—and midfielder Raphael Onyedika.
Goalkeeper Decision and Knockout Mindset
There was also encouraging news regarding goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. After being rested for the final group stage match against Uganda, Nwabali is now in contention to return to the starting lineup for the high-stakes knockout game. His presence would be a major boost for the defensive unit.
The session saw full participation from other established stars like Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, and Charles Bassey. With their next challenge being a crucial clash against the Black Mambas of Mozambique on Tuesday, head coach Eric Chelle has been clear with his squad. He emphasized that their achievements in the group stage are now history and has urged complete focus on the single-elimination format of the knockout rounds, where any mistake could end their tournament.
The loss of Cyriel Dessers, a proven goal threat, is a blow to Nigeria's attacking options as they enter the most critical phase of the competition. All eyes will now be on the team's adaptability and the fitness of other players as they aim to progress deeper into AFCON 2026.
