The Super Eagles of Nigeria face a potential selection crisis heading into the Round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following injuries to two key players. Right-back Ryan Alebiosu, who recently made his senior debut for the national team, may miss the remainder of the tournament in Morocco.
The 22-year-old defender sustained a significant injury during Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over the Cranes of Uganda on Tuesday, December 30, at the Complexe Sportif de Fès. Despite suffering a severe laceration on his right leg during the first half of the encounter, the resilient full-back remained on the pitch for the full 90 minutes to help the team secure a perfect group-stage record.
Alebiosu is currently participating in his first major international competition, and his potential absence would leave head coach Éric Chelle with a tactical void on the right flank. Medical staff are closely monitoring the healing process of the deep wound to determine if he can return for the elimination rounds.
Beyond the defensive concerns, the Nigerian camp also worries about the fitness of striker Cyriel Dessers, who is reportedly battling a thigh complication. The forward’s availability for the rest of the campaign hangs in the balance as the technical team awaits further diagnostic results to assess the severity of the muscle strain.
The Super Eagles’ medical department expects to conduct a comprehensive scan on Cyriel Dessers this Wednesday, December 31, to establish a recovery timeline. If the tests confirm a significant tear, Dessers will join a growing list of sidelined players, further depleting Chelle’s offensive options for the upcoming knockout matches. Nigeria concluded their Group C campaign at the summit with nine points, but these physical setbacks threaten to dampen the momentum gained from their dominant performances in Fès.
As the squad prepares for their Round of 16 opponent, the technical crew must now evaluate depth players and potential formation shifts to compensate for these likely absences. The loss of Alebiosu’s pace on the wing and Dessers’ presence in the box could force the Super Eagles to rely more heavily on their remaining fit attackers and veteran defenders. Fans and analysts alike await the official medical bulletin on Wednesday evening, which will dictate whether Nigeria can count on these two stars as they chase their fourth continental title in 2026.
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