By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-01-17 13:30:19
Nigeria’s coach Jose Peseiro expressed his confusion in a press conference in Abidjan regarding reports that striker Umar Sadiq was set to return to action for his club Real Sociedad just days after withdrawing from the Africa Cup of Nations due to injury. Peseiro stated that he had received a report from the medical team confirming Sadiq’s injury and indicating that he would need at least 15 days to recover. The report was also sent to the club, with the possibility of surgery being mentioned.
Despite Sadiq’s desire to stay on the team, Nigeria’s staff made the decision to replace him before the roster deadline. His spot was filled by Paul Onuachu, who played as a substitute in Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea. Peseiro expressed his sadness at Sadiq’s absence, acknowledging that the player had recovered well but would not be available to help the team.
Real Sociedad coach Imanol Alguacil suggested that it was the Nigerian Football Federation’s decision to send Sadiq back to his club, potentially making him available for their match against Osasuna in the Copa del Rey. In addition to Sadiq’s absence, midfielder Alhassan Yusuf will also miss the next match after sustaining an injury in the opening game.
On the other side, Ivory Coast is also dealing with injury concerns. Striker Sebastien Haller and winger Simon Adingra, who missed the opening match against Guinea-Bissau, have returned to training. Coach Jean-Louis Gasset mentioned that they are on the right track but decisions regarding their availability will depend on further evaluations from the medical staff and discussions with the players.
Nigeria is facing pressure after their draw in the opening match and will play against Ivory Coast in their second game. Despite the challenges, both teams are hopeful of managing their injury concerns and fielding competitive lineups for the upcoming match.
Read the original article on The Guardian
