In a significant blow to Nigeria’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations campaign, defensive midfielder Wilfred Ndidi will be absent due to injury, AfricaSoccer.com can confirm
Royal Antwerp’s Alhassan Yusuf has been swiftly enlisted as a replacement, receiving a late call-up to join the squad in Dubai, where the AFCON training camp has commenced.
Despite Yusuf’s impressive performances with Antwerp in Belgium, this marks his first opportunity to don the Super Eagles jersey.
Ndidi’s injury, sidelining him from Leicester City’s recent victory over Huddersfield Town, prompted the decision to bring in Yusuf.
Yusuf has been impressive for Antwerp this season, making 25 appearances across all competitions with his only goal coming in a 3-2 victory against FC Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League.
The final 24-team squad submissions are due tomorrow, with a grace period until January 10 for injury-related changes.
While Yusuf was initially named on the provisional 40-man AFCON squad, this unexpected turn of events grants him an unexpected chance to contribute to Nigeria’s campaign.
Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro and the team administrator swiftly reached out to Yusuf, underlining the urgency of his presence.
As teams finalize their squads, the dynamics of the upcoming AFCON have shifted for Nigeria, emphasizing the adaptability required in the face of unforeseen challenges.
