Nigeria’s Super Eagles have suffered a big blow ahead of the big clash against arch-rivals, Cameroon, at the ongoing 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after it was confirmed captain, John Mikel Obi, is set to miss the round of 16 clash in Alexandria.
Mikel, who was signed recently by Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor on a free transfer, was ruled doubtful for clash against the Indomitable Lions after picking up a hamstring injury during Nigeria’s final group stage match against Madagascar.
The hamstring injury is likely to end the experienced midfielder’s participation in Egypt, with Super Eagles Media Officer, Toyin Ibitoye, saying a closer examination of the 32-year-old’s fitness showed it would be a miracle if he recovered in time to face the reigning African champions.
It is understood that Mikel was spotted walking with a limp at the team’s Helman Palestine Hotels on Tuesday, with a first test believed to have had made Super Eagles officials think the injury was not so serious to rule him out of the competition.
“He was injured in the last group match against Madagascar which led to his being substituted,” the Super Eagles’ media is reported to have said concerning Mikel’s injury. “The initial test revealed it’s not something very serious.”
Ibitoye explained further: “But at closer examination, it was discovered that he will need to rest and it would be miraculous if he would be available for the next match (in the last 16 stage against Cameroon).
Mikel Obi played for an hour before getting replaced by Arsenal forward, Alex Iwobi, as the Super Eagles fell to a shock defeat at the hands of the Malagasy.
The unexpected result saw Madagascar claim top spot in the group to set up a clash against DR Congo for a place in the quarter-final of what is the Indian Ocean nation’s first ever appearance at AFCON.