Super Eagles forward Cyriel Dessers has given an update on his fitness after missing the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations due to injury.

The Panathinaikos star spoke to reporters following Nigeria’s penalty shootout victory over Egypt on Saturday, a result that secured the Super Eagles the bronze medal at the tournament.

Dessers had been forced to withdraw from the competition after sustaining a thigh injury. The setback kept him sidelined throughout the competition in Morocco.

Despite his absence from the pitch, the forward travelled to be with the squad for the third-place playoff and was present to support the team.

When asked in the mixed zone about his current condition after rejoining the group around the match, Dessers provided a brief update on his recovery. Responding to questions about his fitness, he said, “I’m in rehab now.”

The striker also explained why it was important for him to be with the squad despite being unavailable for selection.

Speaking after the Super Eagles’ victory over Egypt, Dessers expressed pride in the team’s achievement and their overall performance at the tournament.

“I traveled here for for this game and I’m so proud of the boys what they did today and in the whole tournament,” Dessers said.

He added that the squad’s effort over the course of the competition deserved recognition, stating, “they deserve to take something and I’m happy they did.”

Nigeria edged Egypt in a penalty shootout after a goalless contest to finish third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The result brought the Super Eagles’ campaign to a close with a podium finish, while Dessers continues his rehabilitation from the thigh injury that kept him out of the tournament.

Wale Adejumo