Dessers Withdraws from AFCON as Alebiosu Stays with Super Eagles in Morocco

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have suffered a setback at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as forward Cyriel Dessers has been ruled out of the tournament due to a thigh injury. The 31‑year‑old has left the team’s camp in Morocco and returned to his club to begin treatment and rehabilitation after medical assessments showed he would not recover in time for the knockout stages.

Dessers, who had not yet featured in the competition, had been carrying the injury and missed recent training sessions. His exit reduces Nigeria’s attacking options as the team prepares for their Round of 16 clash against Mozambique.

Meanwhile, right‑back Ryan Alebiosu remains with the squad in Morocco as he continues his recovery from a leg injury sustained during the group stage. Though he did not fully participate in recent training, his condition is not considered serious enough to rule him out completely.

With the Super Eagles topping their group and advancing to the knockout round, head coach Eric Chelle has urged the squad to stay focused despite the injury concerns.