Super Eagles' Star Striker Cyriel Dessers Ruled Out of World Cup Playoff Due to Injury

Nigerian striker Cyriel Dessers has been ruled out of the Super Eagles' must-win 2026 World Cup playoff against Gabon due to a lingering ankle injury. Dessers, who plays for Panathinaikos, will need at least a month to recover, leaving Nigeria's attack options thinner.

The absence of the proven goal scorer is a blow to Nigeria's chances in the playoff, with coach Eric Chukwunyelu Chukwuma likely to rely on other forwards like Adam Akor and Tolu Arokodare. The playoff against Gabon holds high stakes as Nigeria aims to secure a spot in the African playoff for the World Cup qualification.