'Did a very good job' - Peseiro singles out Yusuf for praise as he provides update on midfielder's injury

Alhassan Yusuf was one of the few bright sparks in what was a disappointing performance by the Super Eagles in their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations opening match against Equatorial Guinea on Sunday afternoon. 
 

Uncapped at international level before the start of the Super Eagles' training camp in the United Arab Emirates, Yusuf was promoted to the final squad as a replacement for Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi who withdrew from the roster due to a muscular injury that could keep him sidelined for up to three months. 

Built like a pocket battleship, the Royal Antwerp star held his own in the middle of the park and also popped up in attacking positions. 

Yusuf's battling display came at a cost as he had to make way for Joe Aribo in the 69th minute due to an injury, though he initially attempted to play through the pain barrier. 

Asked to provide an injury update on Yusuf, Peseiro told reporters at the post-match press conference: "I don't like to speak about individual performances but it's true this guy did a very good job.

"I don't know if he's injured, I'd like that the injury is not serious so he can play the next match . He showed everybody that he deserves to play for the Super Eagles."

The Super Eagles' 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea puts the three-time African champions under pressure for the next Group A game against hosts Ivory Coast, who started the tournament with a 2-0 win over Guinea-Bissau. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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