Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers has been ruled out of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco after sustaining a thigh injury in training.

The Greece-based forward had already missed Nigeria’s final group match against Uganda due to the same problem and was sent for further medical assessment. Team officials have now confirmed that Dessers will take no further part in the tournament and has returned to his club, Panathinaikos.

Despite the setback, the Super Eagles returned to the training pitch on Friday evening with renewed intensity as preparations stepped up for the knockout phase. Twenty-five players took part in the session, the first full workout since Nigeria sealed qualification from the group stage.

Head coach Eric Chelle used the training to stress the increasing demands of the competition, reminding his players that the margins become finer as the tournament progresses.

Defender Ryan Alebiosu was present but did not train, as he continues his recovery from a leg injury, while midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi missed the session after falling ill. Medical staff are monitoring his condition ahead of the next fixture.

Nigeria will face Mozambique in the Round of 16 on Monday in Fes, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm local time.