AFCON2023: Alhassan Yusuf gives Super Eagles massive boost ahead Ivory Coast clash

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been handed a huge fitness boost with midfield star Alhassan Yusuf set to be fit for the clash against Ivory Coast.

Alhassan gave Nigerians a scare after he was stretched off in the 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea during the AFCON2023 opener on Sunday.

The 23-year-old earned his debut in the disappointing match against the National Thunder from Equatorial Guinea.

 Nigeria was forced to chase the game from behind after Equatorial Guinea took a shock lead in the 36th minute. 

A sloppy error in possession from Alex Iwobi saw the National Thunder win the ball back in Nigeria’s defensive third, with Jose Machin picking out Iban Salvador, who made no mistakes to leave Stanley Nwabali rooted to the spot with the opener.

Nigeria’s response was swift, however, as African Footballer of the Year, Victor Osimhen, headed the Super Eagles back into the game with the equaliser after fine work from Ademola Lookman.

In the second half, Nigeria’s day was ruined further after man-of-the-match contender, Yusuf, suffered a knock and was subsequently forced off. 

But according to a video from Brilla FM, the Royal Antwerp is set to win the race to be fit for Nigeria’s all-important clash against hosts, Cote d’Ivoire.

“No, it’s just cramps,” the talented midfielder stated moments after the game in the video. 

“But I will see how it goes,” he added. “It’s just a cramp.”

Alhassan Yusuf was a late replacement for Wilfred Ndidi but is set to be an important player for Jose Peseiro following a dream debut.