Super Eagles team news pre-Sudan: Taiwo is back, Ani all but ruled out, Harcourt joins squad

The Nigeria home-based Super Eagles have completed their final training session ahead of their crucial Group D encounter against Sudan in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), allnigeriasoccer.com reports.

A major boost for the team comes with the return to full fitness of left-back Abdularafiu Taiwo. 

After missing some sessions due to a knock sustained in Nigeria’s opening match against Senegal, Taiwo trained fully on Monday and is expected to be available for selection against Sudan. 

His return adds strength and experience to the Eagles’ defensive line as they look to secure a vital victory to keep their hopes of progressing in the tournament alive.

However, the Super Eagles face a setback in goalkeeping. First-choice goalkeeper Ozoemena Ani continues to nurse a knee injury and was limited to light exercises during the final training session. 

Due to his ongoing recovery, Ani remains will liklely sit out the Sudan game, meaning his deputy Lawal Mustapha is set to retain the starting spot between the posts.

In preparation for any eventualities, the coaching staff has drafted in Under-20 goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt, who has joined the squad and should be available for selection. 

Harcourt’s inclusion provides additional depth and options in the goalkeeping department as Nigeria prepares for what promises to be a challenging fixture.

The Super Eagles will be looking to bounce back from their opening defeat to Senegal and will rely on their full-strength squad and tactical discipline to overcome Sudan in this must-win Group D clash. 

The game kicks off tomorrow at 8:00 PM local time (6:00 PM Nigerian time) at Amaan Stadium, Zanzibar City.

Wale Adejumo

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