The Super Eagles have skipped New Year holiday celebrations to resume preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 knockout rounds, returning to training in Fez ahead of Monday’s Round of 16 match.
The team held light workout sessions after topping Group C with a 3 1 win over Uganda, which sealed a perfect group stage record and underlined their strong form.
Three players missed the latest training session: captain Victor Osimhen, right back Ryan Alebiosu and striker Cyriel Dessers.
Alebiosu is recovering from an injury picked up against Uganda, Dessers is managing a thigh complaint, while Osimhen was rested as a precaution to keep him fresh for the knockout games.
Before training, some squad members took part in a media parley, answering questions as focus shifted fully from the group phase to the do or die knockout fixtures.
The Eagles will continue their build up in Fez as they aim to maintain momentum into the last 16 and beyond.
Head coach Eric Chelle admitted he now faces a selection headache after a rotated side comfortably defeated Uganda 3 1 in the final group match.
He made seven changes to his starting lineup, keeping only Osimhen, Bruno Onyemaechi and Calvin Bassey, yet the team still dominated.
Raphael Onyedika scored twice in the second half, with Samuel Chukwueze providing two assists, while Paul Onuachu impressed with his link up play alongside Osimhen.
Ryan Alebiosu, Fisayo Dele Bashiru and Igoh Ogbu also strengthened their cases with strong displays, highlighting the depth available to the coaching crew.
Chelle said he is pleased that many players are now pushing for starting spots, even if it gives him “a little pain” when making his final selections because “everyone can play and make an impact”.
Nigeria’s dominant group campaign has reinforced belief in the squad’s strength as they prepare for the knockout stage of the 35th AFCON in Morocco, where they are chasing a fourth continental title after wins in 1980, 1994 and 2013.
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