Dessers opts out of Eagles duty for Panathinaikos

Cyriel Dessers has asked Super Eagles coach Éric Chelle for permission to remain with Panathinaikos during the international break instead of joining Nigeria for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

According to Greek outlet Sport24, the 31-year-old contacted Chelle himself to request permission to stay in Athens and continue his recovery and preparation with Panathinaikos’ medical and coaching staff. Nigeria accepted his request.

Dessers had initially been included in Chelle’s 24-man squad but will now remain with the Greek club as he works towards regaining full fitness following his recent injury.

The striker had made an impact for Panathinaikos before the international break, scoring twice in their dramatic 2-1 Conference League victory over Hradec Králové on August 27.

The decision ruled Dessers out of Nigeria’s opening qualifier against Madagascar and means he will also miss the next Group L fixture against Guinea-Bissau.

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The Super Eagles are also without Victor Osimhen, who was ruled out after sustaining a right-thigh muscle strain in Galatasaray’s clash with Başakşehir earlier this month.

Taiwo Awoniyi was called up as Osimhen’s replacement, leaving Chelle with Awoniyi, Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare and George Ilenikhena among his central striking options, while Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon and Moses Usor provide further attacking options.

Nigeria’s Group L campaign carries added significance because Tanzania, one of the hosts of the 2027 AFCON, are automatically qualified for the tournament. Nigeria, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau are therefore competing for the group’s remaining qualification place.

For Dessers, the immediate priority is to complete his recovery and regain full sharpness with Panathinaikos.

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