By VICTOR OKOYE

The Super Eagles, on Friday, stepped up preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations knockout phase as 25 players trained in Fès.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria will face Mozambique’s Mambas in a Round of 16 fixture on Monday at the Complexe Sportif de Fès.

Team Media Officer Promise Efoghe told NAN after training that the squad remained focused in spite of minor injury and fitness concerns.

Efoghe said defender Ryan Alebiosu attended the session but did not take part as he continues recovery from a leg injury.

“Alebiosu was with the team at training, but he is still recovering and was not involved in the drills,” Efoghe said.

He confirmed that striker Cyriel Dessers has been ruled out of the tournament with a thigh injury.

“Dessers sustained a thigh injury, and the medical team advised that he return to his club for proper recovery,” Efoghe said.

Efoghe added that midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi missed training after coming down with a cold.

“Nnadi sat out the session because he is unwell, but his situation is being closely monitored,” he said.

According to Efoghe, head coach Eric Chelle has challenged the players to mentally reset for the knockout stage.

“The coach told the players to put the group stage behind them and fully refocus on knockout football,” he said.

He added that Chelle stressed discipline, concentration and intensity as crucial to the team’s progress.

“He reminded them that knockout matches demand total commitment from the first minute,” Efoghe said.

The Super Eagles are expected to continue preparations as they fine-tune tactics and fitness ahead of the decisive Round of 16 clash. (NAN)

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