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Super Eagles skip New Year Holiday to prepare for knockout tie
Chelle admits selection headaches
The Super Eagles have begun their preparations for the decisive knockout stages of the on-going Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Morocco 2025, starting from Monday’s 16th Round of tie as they
return to training today despite the New Year holiday.
The Nigerian squad resumed light workout sessions in Fez yesterday following the conclusion of the group stage, as attention shifts fully to the knockout phase of the tournament. Ahead of the post–group stage training, players also took part in a media parley, fielding questions from journalists as they looked forward to the next stage of the competition.
Nigeria booked their place in the Round of 16 as Group C winners after a convincing 3–1 victory over Uganda on Tuesday. The result confirmed the Super Eagles as table toppers and underlined their strong showing in the group phase.
However, three players—captain Victor Osimhen, right-back Ryan Alebiosu, and striker Cyriel Dessers—were absent from the training session. Alebiosu is nursing an injury sustained in the win over Uganda, Dessers is reportedly managing a thigh problem, while Osimhen was rested as a precaution to keep him fresh for the knockout challenge ahead.
In a related development, coach Eric Chelle has admitted facing selection dilemma ahead of Nigeria’s Round of 16 clash after a ‘second string’ Super Eagles eased past Uganda 3-1 on Tuesday.
The Malian tactician made seven changes to his starting XI in Nigeria’s final Group C match against Uganda, retaining only Victor Osimhen, Bruno Onyemaechi and Calvin Bassey.
While Osimhen captained the side, Raphael Onyedika stole the spotlight with two second-half goals, while Samuel Chukwueze provided two assists. Paul Onuachu also impressed with his link-up play alongside Osimhen.
Ryan Alebiosu, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Igoh Ogbu further strengthened their cases with solid displays, highlighting the depth available to the coaching crew.
“I have many options now because everyone can play and make an impact in this team. For me, that is a very good situation,” Chelle said after the match.
Nigeria’s commanding performance underlined their squad strength as they prepare for the knockout phase of the going 35th AFCON in Morocco where they are bidding for a fourth title after previous successes in 1980, 1994 and 2013.
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