AFCON 2023: Nigeria’s Super Eagles Get Timely Boost As Injured Star Returns Ahead of Cameroon Clash

• The knockout phase of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations is on the horizon
• Nigeria’s Super Eagles are slated to clash against perennial rivals Cameroon
• Jose Peseiro’s side have received an injury boost ahead of the crunch tie

The knockout phase of the truly enthralling 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is fast approaching, and fans are on the edge of their seats in anticipation of what is poised to be another round of nail-biting football.

A particularly noteworthy fixture in the round of 16 is the impending clash between Nigeria and their West African counterpart, Cameroon.

The historic rivalry between these neighbouring nations traces back to the 1960s and reached its pinnacle in the 1980s when the Indomitable Lions triumphed over the Super Eagles in two finals, preventing them from securing two additional AFCON crowns.

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However, in the lead-up to what is shaping up to be another pulsating encounter, the Nigerian national team have received a well-timed boost with a key player returning from injury.

Nigeria gets timely AFCON injury boost

As per a report from the media outlet @SSE_NGA, injured midfielder Alhassan Yusuf has rejoined first-team training after being sidelined for a significant portion of the group stages.

The 23-year-old combative Royal Antwerp midfielder suffered an injury setback during Nigeria's opening AFCON match against Equatorial Guinea. Despite his impactful performance in the game, the injury kept him out of the tournament until now.

Yusuf's comeback from injury is timely, especially with the Super Eagles gearing up for a physically demanding clash against their Cameroonian counterparts.

His return aligns with the return of team vice-captain William Troost-Ekong. However, it remains uncertain whether Yusuf will be fit enough to start the upcoming encounter or if he will contribute to the game from the substitute bench.

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Guinea Bissau coach tips Nigeria for AFCON

In another report, Sports Brief highlighted that Guinea-Bissau coach Baciro Cande has identified Nigeria as the favourite to clinch the AFCON title.

The 56-year-old manager, whose team unfortunately exited the competition in the group stages, discussed Nigeria's potential to emerge victorious in the tournament.

However, the Djurtus coach specified a condition for the West African nation to secure the title in Ivory Coast.