Nigeria’s preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations final against Ivory Coast have been hit with a minor hurdle as left-back Zaidu Sanusi faces a late fitness test to determine his availability.
“He was partially involved in Friday training, and we will check his condition again tonight before we make a decision,” said coach Jose Peseiro, confirming the 26-year-old’s hamstring injury sustained ahead of the semi-final win over South Africa.
Sanusi’s absence forced a reshuffle in the usually solid Nigerian defense, which has only conceded two goals in the entire tournament. His return would undoubtedly provide stability and experience at the back, but Peseiro remains focused on finding the best solution regardless.
“There is no favourite for the final,” the Portuguese tactician declared confidently. “I think each side has a 50 percent chance but we are determined to win this final.”
While Sanusi’s fitness dominates headlines, all eyes will be on star striker Victor Osimhen, the current African Footballer of the Year. Despite his influential role, Osimhen has only managed one goal throughout the tournament, leading to questions about his individual performance.
However, Peseiro dismissed any concerns, praising Osimhen’s selfless approach. “He doesn’t play like he is the star. He fights for the team and is completely unselfish,” Peseiro remarked. “He knows he is an important player and he gives us the best energy. He has suffered a lot in this tournament with all the attention he receives from the opposing defenders because he knows it is a team game.”
With the final against Ivory Coast just a day away, the Super Eagles await Sanusi’s fitness verdict while remaining confident in their ability to lift the trophy. Osimhen’s impact, both on and off the field, will surely be crucial in their quest for glory. Whether he finds the back of the net again is secondary, as Peseiro emphasizes, as long as Nigeria emerges victorious on Sunday.
