AFCON AFCON 2023: Peseiro Gives Update On Zaidu Injury

Super Eagles head Coach Jose Peseiro has stated that Zaidu Sanusi will have a fitness test later on Saturday to determine if he can make a comeback to the squad for the Africa Cup of Nations final on Sunday against the hosts, Ivory Coast.

The 26-year-old Sanusi’s hamstring injury prevented him from playing in the semi-final match against South Africa, necessitating a change in the well-trained Nigerian defence, which has allowed two goals in six games throughout the tournament in the Ivory Coast.

He was partially involved in Friday training and we will check his condition again tonight before we make a decision,” said Peseiro.

Read Also:AFCON 2023: South Africa vs DR Congo ‘very special game’ – Hugo Broos

The Nigerians, who have had a strong team the entire competition and defeated the Ivorians in the group round, are just concerned about him.

“There is no favourite for the final,” insisted Peseiro. “I think each side has a 50 percent chance but we are determined to win this final.”

Victor Osimhen, the African Footballer of the Year, who has been a standout performer at the tournament despite just scoring one goal in Nigeria’s opening match a month ago, will receive extra attention.

“He doesn’t play like he is the star. He fights for the team and is completely unselfish,” said Peseiro.

“He knows he is an important player and he gives us the best energy.

“He has suffered a lot in this tournament with all the attention he receives from the opposing defenders because he knows it is a team game.”


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