Nigeria’s quest for glory in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) faces a significant hurdle as a string of injuries to key players raises concerns about the team’s attacking prowess.
While financial controversies have been averted, the Super Eagles are grappling with an injury crisis that has left them without several star players ahead of their opening game against Equatorial Guinea.
President Bola Tinubu’s swift approval of funds to settle outstanding wages and bonuses has provided financial stability for the Nigerian contingent.
However, the focus has now shifted to the injury-stricken squad, particularly the striking department, where key players have been sidelined.
Star striker Victor Osimhen emerges as the linchpin of Nigeria’s attacking aspirations, with the team grappling with the absence of prominent forwards such as Taiwo Awoniyi, Victor Boniface, and Kelechi Iheanacho.due to injuries.
This depletion leaves coach Jose Peseiro with limited options, forcing tactical adjustments and a reliance on versatile players.
In a twist of fate, the injury list grew longer with Sadiq Umar’s withdrawal due to a knee injury suffered in a friendly against Guinea.
This prompted the call-up of Paul Onuachu as the third replacement player, joining the ranks after Victor Boniface and Terem Moffi had stepped in for injured Victor Boniface
The situation has whittled down the available striking options, placing immense pressure on Napoli’s Victor Osimhen.
Coach Peseiro, faced with a dilemma, must ensure the careful management and protection of Osimhen, as any further setbacks could leave the team without a recognized striker.
Former Super Eagles captain, Joseph Yobo, expressed the need to shield Osimhen, stating,
“Osimhen trains the way he plays. It is now up to him; does he want to tone it down in training to avoid injury? The defenders may have to tell him to calm down.”
The late replacements, Moffi and Onuachu, face the challenge of integrating quickly into the squad before the crucial opening game.
Peseiro’s decision to limit the squad to 25 players, rather than the allowed 27, is now under scrutiny as the team navigates the AFCON with a reduced attacking arsenal.
Despite the setbacks, confidence within the squad remains steadfast. Skipper Ahmed Musa affirmed the team’s commitment to winning the cup, emphasizing the collective determination of the available players to start the tournament on a positive note.
As the Super Eagles participate in AFCON in Cote D Ivoire, the narrative shifts from financial controversies to the resilience required to overcome the striking predicament and pursue glory in the face of adversity.