Nigeria have been dealt a major blow at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after Cyriel Dessers was ruled out for the rest of the tournament with a thigh injury.
The Panathinaikos forward missed all three group-stage matches and scans have now confirmed he will play no further part in the Super Eagles’ title bid. He has since returned to Greece to continue his recovery.
A Super Eagles official admitted the setback but insisted the squad remains focused. “He left the team’s hotel a few hours ago, and it is a big blow for us because we all know what he brings to the group,” the official said.
“It’s a tough reality to deal with, especially because everyone knew how much he was looking forward to this competition,” the official added.
Nigeria also have fresh fitness concerns ahead of the Mozambique clash. Blackburn Rovers defender Alebiosu is a major doubt after missing training due to a leg cut sustained against Uganda.
Midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi also sat out training after coming down with a cold.
Despite the issues, the camp remains confident. “We are confident the other players are ready to step up and make up for his absence,” the official said.
Eric Chelle’s side face Mozambique on January 5 in Fez, with a quarter-final against either Algeria or DR Congo potentially awaiting them
