AFCON 2023: Victor Osimhen and Alhassan Yusuf fitness status for Nigeria vs Côte d’Ivoire revealed

Victor Osimhen did not participate in Super Eagles training after their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations opening clash against Equatorial Guinea

Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro has indicated that Napoli forward Victor Osimhen may be fit for the matchday 2 clash against the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations host, Cote d’Ivoire, as reported by Soccernet.ng.

On the other hand, Peseiro expressed uncertainty about Royale Antwerp defensive midfielder Alhassan Yusuf, who had an intriguing debut against Equatorial Guinea in Nigeria’s opening game before picking up a knock.

The former IFK Göteborg player underwent a scan to assess his condition, which, off the record, he confirmed to Soccernet.ng that he was fine.

Meanwhile, in an interview with the Portuguese tactician, Peseiro provided insights into the situations of Osimhen and Yusuf, who did not participate in the first training session after the Equatorial Guinea match.

“Osimhen, in the last camp against Portugal, for the friendly match against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique, Osimhen’s injury was bad for him, was bad for Naples, was bad for us [Nigeria]. He told me yesterday, ‘Mr, I feel a slight pain in this place where I was previously injured’. I think I prefer him not to do anything than end up going for an operation.

“But Yusuf, he left the match, he is injured, he is doing the scan now [ at that time]. To know what has happened to him. I hope nothing bad has happened.”

The former Sporting CP coach affirmed that the CAF 2023 Best Player Of The Year would be available to play against Côte d’Ivoire.

Watch the video here:

However, Yusuf’s availability for the game remains uncertain, and there are rumours suggesting he might be ruled out for the rest of the AFCON tournament due to the injury.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face Côte d’Ivoire on Thursday with the hope of securing all points following their disappointing early draw against Equatorial Guinea.