By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-01-18 03:23:02
Alhassan Yusuf, Nigeria’s standout player in their opening game at the Africa Cup of Nations against Equatorial Guinea, will be sidelined for their next match against the hosts. The midfielder sustained an injury in the 1-1 draw on Monday and has not sufficiently recovered to participate in the upcoming clash. However, there is hope that he could return for the final game against Guinea Bissau.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference in Abidjan, Coach Jose Peseiro confirmed Yusuf’s absence and also mentioned that Terem Moffi and Kelechi Iheanacho have joined the team. Iheanacho, though, has been training alone under the guidance of the medical staff.
Following a lackluster performance in their previous game, the Super Eagles have faced criticism from their supporters. Despite being favored on paper, they struggled to secure a victory against Equatorial Guinea, prompting disappointment from fans and pundits alike. The team, however, has shifted their focus to their upcoming game against Cote D’Ivoire, as emphasized by Peseiro.
Nigeria currently sits joint second in Group A with one point, while Cote d’Ivoire leads the group with three points. Stand-in captain William Troost-Ekong has called for continued support from Nigerians, expressing the team’s determination to advance to the knockout rounds and beyond.
Troost-Ekong’s plea for support reflects the team’s determination to bounce back from their underwhelming start and make a strong push towards the latter stages of the tournament. As they prepare to face the hosts in a crucial match, the Super Eagles continue to strive for their ultimate goal of success at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Read the original article on The Guardian
