AFCON 2023: Osimhen and Yusuf Undergo Individual Training Sessions Amid Preparations for Côte d'Ivoire Clash
Despite their presence at the training grounds, both players were held back from participating in the day's activities.
Concerns Over Osimhen's Fitness
Victor Osimhen, the Napoli star forward, raised concerns with the coaching staff upon the team's arrival for training. The exact nature and severity of his issue remain unclear, sparking speculations about his fitness and availability for the upcoming crucial matches.
This development is a potential cause of worry for the Super Eagles as Osimhen is a pivotal figure This development is a potential cause of worry for the Super Eagles as Osimhen is a pivotal figure in their attacking lineup.
His absence from training just days before the crucial match against the host nation, Côte d'Ivoire, leaves a question mark over his participation.
In the latest update from the Super Eagles camp in Abidjan, key players Victor Osimhen and Alhassan Yusuf were notably absent from Monday's training session following the team's 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea.
BREAKING!
— Nsidibe Akpan (@nsidibeakpan23) January 15, 2024
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen sits out first team training today. The Napoli striker scored for Nigeria against Equatorial Guinea on Sunday in the ongoing AFCON. He is reportedly recovering from the on doctor's instructions. #AFCON2023 #CAN2023 pic.twitter.com/OXBXs0I9Mp
Despite their presence at the training grounds, both players were held back from participating in the day's activities as reported by TheNewsGuru.
Precautionary Measures for Yusuf
Alhassan Yusuf's absence from the training ground, along with Osimhen, was also a matter of concern. However, the team's Media Officer, Babafemi Raji, was quick to clarify that their withdrawal from the day's training was merely a precautionary measure.
Victor Osimhen and Alhassan Yusuf trained individually .💫🦅
— Sports Radio Brila FM (@Brilafm889) January 15, 2024
No major concern yet.#afconwithbrila #AFCON2023 pic.twitter.com/5uESJvO1bm
This suggests that the team management is taking no chances with the health and fitness of its key players. Yusuf, known for his dynamic midfield presence, is another important component of the Super Eagles squad, and the team would be keen to have him at his best for the upcoming games.
In contrast to the duo's absence, the training session saw active participation from other crucial players. OGC Nice striker, Terem Moffi, was reported to be in high spirits, undergoing rigorous training. Likewise, Leicester City's Kelechi Iheanacho was also part of the training, providing coach Jose Peseiro with alternative options in the attack.
The Super Eagles are preparing to face the Elephants of Côte d'Ivoire on Thursday at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara Stadium, and the team's composition and strategy are likely to be influenced by the fitness levels of these key players.