Sadiq Umar misses Super Eagles training with injury

As the Super Eagles prepare for their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opening group game vs Equatorial Guinea on Sunday, January 14, 2024, striker Umar Sadiq was absent in Thursday’s training session.

Jose Peseiro’s squad is set to face Nzalang Nacional at the Alassanne Quattara Stadium in Ebimpe, Abidjan, this Sunday for their Group A opener.

However, the absence of Sadiq from Thursday’s training session has raised doubts about his fitness for the opening clash.

Sadiq, 26, had already trained separately from the team on Wednesday, and with his continued absence, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen could be the only available fit striker for the Equatorial Guinea game.

The Super Eagles are grappling with an injury crisis in the striking department, as Kelechi Iheanacho, recovering from a muscular problem, is expected to join the team on Saturday.

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In addition, Bayer Leverkusen striker, who was initially included in the squad, is now ruled out due to injury, with OGC Nice’s forward Terem Moffi taking his place.

However, the new addition is set to link up with the team on the day of the Equatorial Guinea match.

As Peseiro faces a striking crisis, veteran skipper Ahmed Musa emerges as a potential back-up for Osimhen in the center-forward role. Known for his ability to run behind defenders and clinical finishing, Musa’s experience may be called upon.

Despite the challenges, the Super Eagles remain focused on securing a victory in their opening match, with Peseiro emphasizing that only a win will suffice as Nigeria aims for a fourth AFCON title in Cote d’Ivoire.