The Super Eagles of Nigeria have been dealt a blow following their narrow victory over the Swallows of Burundi in their Group B opener at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
The Nigerians secured a win after Odion Ighalo came off the bench to score the only goal after an impressive defensive display from the tournament debutants. However, the three-time African Champions paid the price as right-back Shehu Abdullahi was substituted before the end of the first half of the match.
Now, reports from the Super Eagles’ camp suggest that Shehu Abdullahi could miss the rest of Nigeria’s 2019 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hamstring injury. The defender is gradually recovering from a hamstring injury and will play no part when the Super Eagles face the National Elephants of Guinea on Wednesday.
The Turkey-based defender had to be carried out by medics in the first half and was replaced by Porto defender Chidozie Awaziem in the Super Eagles 1-0 triumph over Burundi.
Abdullahi had endured an injury-plagued season while on loan at Turkish topflight outfit, Çaykur Rizespor to make Gernot Rohr’s 23-man squad to the African football showpiece.
Although Nigeria medics are yet to place a timeframe on his full recovery, the Super Eagles’ media officer Toyin Ibitoye told Goal that the right-back would be sidelined for Wednesday’s showdown with Guinea in Alexandria. “Shehu is fine but may need just a few days to be back to 100%.” While Rohr remained tight-lipped as to the extent of the injury, reports suggest that the problem is not a severe one.
However, the German tactician will not risk worsening the injury with other options available for selection. Some of the options available include Kenneth Omeruo of Leganes who is on loan from Chelsea but the 2013 AFCON winner is prefered in the centre-back position. Awaziem, who replaced Shehu on Saturday is a more natural fit for the position. Ola Aina is also an option as a right full back putting Shehu’s position in jeopardy.
Most accurate football prediction website...
