Nigeria’s interim manager Augustine Eguavoen has backtracked on his earlier commitment to include Cyriel Dessers, Rangers’ dual national striker, in the squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations AFCON qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda. Despite previously promising Dessers’ inclusion, Eguavoen has instead opted for Real Sociedad’s Umar Sadiq, despite Sadiq’s recent lack of form and absence of goals this season. This marks Sadiq’s return to the squad after a hiatus since March 2024.
At a recent press conference, Eguavoen explained that Dessers’ recent inconsistency scoring only once in his last nine appearances led to the decision. Dessers, who was born in Belgium to a Nigerian mother and Belgian father, holds six caps and two goals for Nigeria. He remains eligible to switch allegiance to Belgium, as his international appearances for Nigeria have not been in competitive matches that would lock in his commitment.
Eguavoen’s revised lineup also includes centre forwards Kelechi Iheanacho Sevilla, Victor Boniface Bayer Leverkusen, and Victor Osimhen on loan at Napoli, alongside Sadiq for the critical AFCON qualification games.
Editorial
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The exclusion of Cyriel Dessers from Nigeria’s AFCON squad, despite prior assurances, underscores the delicate balancing act in international team selections. Eguavoen’s decision likely reflects the need for consistency and performance in a squad where competition for spots is fierce. Yet, for a player like Dessers, whose roots and loyalty align him closely with Nigerian football, this exclusion may feel particularly disheartening, especially when his dream to represent Nigeria remains steadfast.
In a world where dual national players have increasing options, national teams must build trust and transparent communication with players. Dessers’ journey reflects the broader challenge faced by dual national players who may wait years for the call that validates their dedication. As Nigeria continues its campaign for AFCON qualification, we hope the Super Eagles will keep an open door for talents like Dessers, recognising that loyalty to the team often goes beyond recent form.
Looking forward, fostering this understanding is not only about strengthening the squad but about maintaining Nigeria’s appeal for talented players worldwide. For Dessers and other committed players, the Super Eagles’ management must ensure that their international journeys are as rewarding as their talents deserve.
Did You Know?
- Cyriel Dessers joined Rangers from Serie A’s Cremonese, where he gained valuable experience in European football.
- Dual-national players in football can switch allegiances if they haven’t played a competitive senior international match for a country.
- Umar Sadiq previously played for Almeria in Spain, where he was prolific, earning his move to Real Sociedad.
- Augustine Eguavoen led Nigeria’s Super Eagles as head coach in 2005-2007 and returned in 2021 as interim manager.
- Nigeria’s Super Eagles are three-time AFCON champions, last lifting the trophy in 2013 under Stephen Keshi’s management.
