Star player ruled out of AFCON 2025 for Nigeria due to injury

Super Eagles Suffer Injury Blow as Cyriel Dessers Is Ruled Out of AFCON 2025

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have been dealt a significant setback ahead of the AFCON 2025 knockout stages, following confirmation that forward Cyriel Dessers has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to injury.

The 31-year-old striker sustained a thigh injury during a training session, an issue that has since been assessed as more serious than initially feared. Medical evaluations confirmed that Dessers will not recover in time before the tournament concludes on January 18, 2026.

Dessers Returns to Club for Rehabilitation

As a result, the Panathinaikos forward has departed the Super Eagles’ camp in Morocco and returned to Greece, where he will undergo an intensive rehabilitation programme under the supervision of his club’s medical team.

Dessers’ withdrawal is particularly frustrating given his expected role within head coach Eric Chelle’s attacking plans. Despite being regarded as a key option, the striker did not feature during Nigeria’s group-stage matches, making his tournament exit a disappointing end to what was anticipated to be an impactful campaign.

Growing Fitness Concerns for Nigeria

Dessers’ absence further complicates Nigeria’s preparations as they approach their Round of 16 clash against Mozambique, with several players currently managing fitness concerns.

• Ryan Alebiosu continues to recover from a deep leg laceration

• Tochukwu Nnadi missed a recent training session after suffering from a severe cold

• Stanley Nwabali is nursing minor knee and ankle issues but is expected to remain available for selection

While none of these concerns are considered critical at this stage, they add to the growing list of challenges facing the technical crew.

Attacking Depth Remains a Strength

Despite the injury setbacks, the Super Eagles remain well-equipped going into the knockout phase. Nigeria topped Group C with a perfect nine points, underlining their strong form and tactical discipline.

Key attacking figures Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Raphael Onyedika have led the charge, with Onyedika scoring twice in the final group-stage victory against Uganda.

Focus Remains on Continental Glory

As Nigeria push for a fourth AFCON title, confidence within the squad remains high. While the loss of Dessers removes a valuable physical presence and attacking option, the depth and quality within the team ensure the Super Eagles remain firmly positioned as strong contenders.

The focus now shifts to maintaining momentum and managing squad fitness as the knockout stages begin.