In a gesture signalling strong support for international football, Serie A champions Napoli have officially released Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen for duty with the Super Eagles at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The announcement comes as Nigeria prepares to finalize its squad for the highly anticipated tournament scheduled to take place in Cote d’Ivoire next January.
Read Also: NPFL: Pitch Perfect – Coach Ogunmodede Bemoans ‘Woeful’ Conditions After Team’s 3-1 Defeat to Heartland FC
Following Thursday’s training session, Napoli conveyed that Osimhen has been granted a day’s leave to spend time with his family before departing for the national team’s training camp.
It’s expected that the prolific forward will secure his place in Nigeria’s final AFCON squad, showcasing his prowess on the continental stage once again.
Napoli emphasized Osimhen’s ineligibility for an upcoming championship match: “We remind you that the former Lille player is disqualified in the championship and will miss the match against Monza.”
This underlines Napoli’s commitment to facilitating Osimhen’s participation in the AFCON, acknowledging the significance of international duties.
Celebrating his 25th birthday today, Osimhen is poised to make his second AFCON appearance in Cote d’Ivoire, having been part of the Super Eagles squad in the 2019 AFCON finals hosted by Egypt.
Unfortunately, he missed the last AFCON in Cameroon due to injury but is set to make a strong comeback this time.
The Super Eagles, drawn in Group A alongside Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, and Equatorial Guinea, will commence their AFCON campaign against Equatorial Guinea at the Alssanne Quattara Stadium, Ebimpe, Abidjan on Sunday, January 14.
As Osimhen joins the national team, expectations soar for Nigeria’s campaign, with fans eagerly anticipating the striker’s dynamic contributions to their quest for continental glory.
