In the latest update from the Super Eagles camp in Abidjan, key players Victor Osimhen and Alhassan Yusuf were notably absent from Monday's training session following the team's 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea.
Despite their presence at the training grounds, both players were held back from participating in the day's activities.
Concerns Over Osimhen's Fitness
Victor Osimhen, the Napoli star forward, raised concerns with the coaching staff upon the team's arrival for training. The exact nature and severity of his issue remain unclear, sparking speculations about his fitness and availability for the upcoming crucial matches.
20:50 - 15.01.2024
AFCON 2023: Kelechi Iheanacho pictured in training ahead of Nigeria’s crucial clash with Ivory Coast
Kelechi Iheanacho, the talented Nigerian striker, has rejoined the Super Eagles training camp in preparation for their upcoming match against Ivory Coast at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
16:10 - 15.01.2024
AFCON 2023: 5 reasons Nigeria's Super Eagles are better than Ghana's Black Stars
Nigeria and Ghana have their own unique strengths and challenges, these factors indicate that the Super Eagles could have a competitive edge in the AFCON.
This development is a potential cause of worry for the Super Eagles as Osimhen is a pivotal figure This development is a potential cause of worry for the Super Eagles as Osimhen is a pivotal figure in their attacking lineup.
His absence from training just days before the crucial match against the host nation, Côte d'Ivoire, leaves a question mark over his participation.
In the latest update from the Super Eagles camp in Abidjan, key players Victor Osimhen and Alhassan Yusuf were notably absent from Monday's training session following the team's 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea.
Despite their presence at the training grounds, both players were held back from participating in the day's activities as reported by TheNewsGuru.
Precautionary Measures for Yusuf
Alhassan Yusuf's absence from the training ground, along with Osimhen, was also a matter of concern. However, the team's Media Officer, Babafemi Raji, was quick to clarify that their withdrawal from the day's training was merely a precautionary measure.
This suggests that the team management is taking no chances with the health and fitness of its key players. Yusuf, known for his dynamic midfield presence, is another important component of the Super Eagles squad, and the team would be keen to have him at his best for the upcoming games.
In contrast to the duo's absence, the training session saw active participation from other crucial players. OGC Nice striker, Terem Moffi, was reported to be in high spirits, undergoing rigorous training. Likewise, Leicester City's Kelechi Iheanacho was also part of the training, providing coach Jose Peseiro with alternative options in the attack.
The Super Eagles are preparing to face the Elephants of Côte d'Ivoire on Thursday at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara Stadium, and the team's composition and strategy are likely to be influenced by the fitness levels of these key players.