Royale Antwerp defensive midfielder Alhassan Yusuf and Victor Osimhen have been spotted training separately in preparation for the Super Eagles' upcoming clash against 2023 Africa Cup of Nations host, Côte d'Ivoire, as reported by Soccernet.ng.
The Nigerian national team is set to face the Ivorian squad on Thursday, January 18, aiming to give Nigerian football fans a reason to celebrate after their disappointing 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea.
The early substitution of Belgian-based player Yusuf has led to concerns about his availability for the match against Côte d'Ivoire, considering his impressive debut for the Super Eagles.
Additionally, Soccernet.ng noted Napoli forward Osimhen training separately from the rest of the team, raising concerns within the Nigerian football community.
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Super Eagles media officer Babafemi Raji addressed these concerns, assuring that both players are expected to be available for selection against the AFCON 2023 host.
Raji clarified: “We know Alhassan Yusuf left the pitch yesterday; it was just a cramp, and the same with Victor Osimhen, just a slight strain. But it is nothing to worry about; it's just precautionary. They would still be available for selection when the time comes. So, it's just precautionary; it's just part of the normal routine.”
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During the training session, Leicester City forward Kelechi Iheanacho, who was available for selection against Equatorial Guinea, fully rejoined the team, participating in the group training.
In a positive development, OGC Nice forward Terem Moffi also joined the training session, providing a boost to the team ahead of their clash against their West African neighbours.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are scheduled to face Côte d'Ivoire at the Olympique Alassane Ouattara Stadium on Thursday in one of the most anticipated matches of the 2023 AFCON tournament.
