Cyriel Dessers’ hopes of making his Africa Cup of Nations debut have been cut short after injury forced his withdrawal from the Super Eagles squad at the ongoing 2025 AFCON in Morocco, NigeriaSoccernet.com reports.
The Nigerian forward has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament after sustaining a thigh injury and has been granted permission to return to his club, Panathinaikos of Greece, for further treatment and recovery. Dessers only joined the Greek side in September 2025 on a three-year contract after leaving Rangers FC, and his untimely setback means he will have to wait longer for a first AFCON appearance. His withdrawal also marks the first injury-related exit from the Super Eagles camp during the competition.
Despite the setback, preparations continued on Friday evening, with 25 players participating in training, including star striker Victor Osimhen. However, Ryan Alebiosu and Tochukwu Nnadi were limited to observing from the sidelines. Alebiosu, who sparked concern after the group stage clash against Uganda, remains with the squad but is still recovering from a leg injury and was unable to train fully. Nnadi, on the other hand, missed the session due to illness.
Head coach Eric Chelle used the opportunity to address the players, reminding them to put their impressive group stage performances behind them and focus their full attention on the knockout phase. The Malian tactician stressed the need for renewed focus, discipline, and intensity as the tournament enters its most decisive stage.
Nigeria, which topped their group with a perfect record, will now turn their attention to Monday’s Round of 16 encounter against Mozambique. With Dessers sidelined, Chelle is expected to rely on the depth and versatility within his attacking options as the Super Eagles continue their push for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title.