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Kelechi Iheanacho's absence has continued to raise eyebrows amongst Super Eagles fans during AFCON 2023.
The ongoing AFCON 2023 tournament in Ivory Coast has been filled with excitement and surprises, but one notable absence has left fans and supporters questioning the decisions of Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro.
Kelechi Iheanacho has yet to see a minute of action on the field despite being one of the oldest members of the Nigerian squad.
With Nigeria advancing to the semi-finals, expectations were high for the 27-year-old Leicester forward to play a significant role, making his continued absence a cause for concern among supporters.
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15:35 - 28.01.2024
AFCON 2023: Three reasons Iheanacho didn’t play against Cameroon
Nigeria's performance in the tournament is closely watched, and the decisions regarding player selection are critical to their success.
Iheanacho's omission from the starting lineup has become a topic of discussion, especially considering his experience and goal-scoring prowess.
Recently a photo of the former Manchester City forward emerged on social media, with the Foxes star looking dejected despite Nigeria's progress at AFCON 2023.
Ola Aina, one of Super Eagles' brightest stars so far at the tournament posted a photo of a seemingly 'sad' Iheanacho on his Snapchat with no caption.
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15:06 - 19.01.2024
AFCON 2023: 'We need your blessings' - Kelechi Iheanacho begs JJ Okocha to always visit Super Eagles before games
In a remarkable expression of respect and admiration for a legendary figure in Nigerian football, Kelechi Iheanacho, the Leicester City forward, implored Jay-Jay Okocha to regularly visit the Super Eagles before their crucial games.
Iheanacho AFCON 2023 Snub: Joes Peseiro's explanation and the Amapiano Derby Ahead
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Pulse Sports earlier reported that Coach Jose Peseiro recently addressed the growing concerns about Iheanacho's absence during AFCON 2023.
In response to inquiries about the forward's non-inclusion in the playing eleven, Peseiro explained, "Till now we have not played several players, including Kelechi. I would like to put all of them; even if the referee allows me, I put 25 on the pitch but he doesn’t allow it."
The coach emphasized the challenge of balancing a talented squad and the limitations imposed by the rules of the game.
With Nigeria set to face Bafana Bafana in what promises to be an intense Amapiano derby on February 7, all eyes will be on whether Iheanacho will finally get the opportunity to showcase his skills and contribute to the team's success.
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23:59 - 03.02.2024
AFCON 2023: South Africa dares Super Eagles of Nigeria ahead of 'Amapiano battle' semi-final clash
See what South Africans are saying ahead of the clash against Nigeria in the semifinal of AFCON 2023.
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05:22 - 04.02.2024
Nigeria vs Angola: 3 key observations from Super Eagles' laboured win
Nigeria's Super Eagles were pushed to their limits against a spirited Angola side in their AFCON 2023 quarterfinal clash.
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20:02 - 03.02.2024
Give me South Africa in semi-final — Super Eagles keeper Nwabali ready to crush Bafana Bafana
Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has expressed a desire to face South Africa in the semi-final of AFCON 2023.
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