Nigeria’s Super Eagles have suffered a setback at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as striker Cyriel Dessers has been ruled out of the tournament due to a thigh injury. Medical assessments confirmed that Dessers would be unable to recover in time for the knockout stages, prompting his return to his club, Panathinaikos, in Greece, for further treatment and rehabilitation.
The 31-year-old forward had not featured in any of Nigeria’s group-stage matches, having struggled with the injury since the tournament’s onset. Despite his absence on the pitch, Dessers was considered a valuable option in the squad’s rotation plan.
Nigeria concluded the group stage with a perfect record, securing nine points from victories over Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda. As they prepare to face Mozambique in the Round of 16 on January 5, the team will need to adjust their attacking options in light of Dessers’ unavailability.
The Super Eagles will continue their campaign with the remaining squad members as they aim for a fourth AFCON title.
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