AFCON 2023: Super Eagles Coach Jose Peseiro Provides Fresh Update on Victor Osimhen’s Fitness

• The commencement of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals is upon us
• Nigeria’s Super Eagles are sweating over the fitness of forward Victor Osimhen
• Jose Peseiro provided an update on Osimhen's availability against South Africa

The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) promises another enthralling spectacle as Nigeria’s Super Eagles square off against Bafana Bafana.

This eagerly anticipated clash, set to unfold at the illustrious Stade de Bouake, sees age-old rivals locking horns for a shot at the showpiece final.

However, the Super Eagles have been hit with a setback ahead of the crunch tie, with marquee forward Victor Osimhen struggling with an abdominal injury.

The reigning Confederation of African (CAF) Footballer of the Year was not named in Nigeria's travelling squad to Bouake, as he continues to undergo medical assessment in Abidjan.

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Osimhen's availability for the match remains uncertain. However, as anticipation builds for the showdown against South Africa, coach Jose Peseiro, has provided an update on the forward's injury status.

Peseiro on Victor Osimhen's injury

Addressing reporters at the pre-match press conference ahead of the Super Eagles' 2023 AFCON semi-final clash with Bafana Bafana, manager Peseiro, delivered a fresh update on the fitness of the Napoli superstar.

The 63-year-old conceded that, at present, he remains uncertain about the availability of the Super Eagles' talisman and indicated that clarity would emerge in the hours ahead.

"At this moment, I cannot provide a definitive answer due to his health condition. Later today, I hope to have a clearer picture of whether he can participate," Peseiro informed journalists, as reported by All Nigeria Soccer.

"Our medical team will continue to assess him and determine his suitability for the match later in the day."

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The Napoli sensation has played a pivotal role in guiding the three-time Cup of Nations champions to the semi-finals.

The manager's remarks only intensify concerns among Nigerians, who anxiously await news of the forward's availability for the crucial encounter against South Africa.

South African forward on defeating Nigeria

In another report, Sports Brief stated that South African forward, Mihlali Mayambela, has expressed his desire to defeat the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

The 27-year-old, who has been a key player for Hugo Broos' team, has yet to experience tournament success with Bafana Bafana.

The 1996 AFCON champions have not recorded a victory against Nigeria since June 2017.