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Super Eagles coach pleased as Alebiosu, Dessers face injury doubt
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle praises team after 3-1 Uganda win, but Ryan Alebiosu and Cyriel Dessers face injury doubts ahead of knockout stage
Super Eagles coach Eric Sekou Chelle has expressed satisfaction with Nigeria’s performance following their 3-1 victory over Uganda in the final Group C match of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, even as the team faces injury concerns ahead of the knockout stages.
Also read: Super Eagles return to training ahead of Uganda clash
Speaking at a post-match press conference, the 48-year-old Franco-Malian tactician said he is accustomed to the pressures of leading the Super Eagles and praised the squad’s adaptability and depth.
“Of course, there is pressure, but I’m fascinated by that,” Chelle said.
“Since we came, I have faced a lot of pressure, but I feel good. The town is perfect, the hotel is good and the atmosphere is perfect. We are calm, and I just want to stay focused during the game.”
Chelle highlighted the team’s performance against Uganda, emphasising the contribution of players who had not started in previous matches.
“They showed something today, and we scored three goals. I’m very happy for that. Now, I have a little pain in my head because I have a lot of choices since anybody can play in the team, and it’s perfect for me,” he said.
Despite the positive display, injury concerns have emerged.
Blackburn defender Ryan Alebiosu, who made his debut against Uganda, sustained a deep cut on his right leg and may have played his final match of the tournament.
Meanwhile, striker Cyriel Dessers is reported to have a thigh problem and is scheduled for a scan to determine the severity of his injury.
Chelle confirmed the team is comfortable in Fès, the host city for the Round of 16 match, adding that Nigeria is already feeling at home as preparations continue.
“The town is good and calm; the people are very nice, and I’m happy to stay here,” the coach said.
Also read: Super Eagles Demand Higher Bonuses Ahead of AFCON 2025
The Super Eagles are set to face the third-placed team from Group F on Monday, 5 January, with preparations now focused on ensuring the squad remains competitive despite the injury uncertainties.
In a decisive move aimed at alleviating the economic burdens of retired public servants, Zamfara State Governor, Dr Dauda Lawal, has officially approved increased monthly pension payments for all former workers from both state and local government offices. The approval follows an extensive financial review of retirees’ living conditions, with particular attention to those in lower-income brackets who have been disproportionately affected by the prevailing cost-of-living crisis.
The decision was precipitated by the findings and recommendations of a special committee empaneled to evaluate the welfare situation of pensioners across the state. The committee’s report highlighted acute financial distress among aging retirees and called for immediate remedial action. In response, the state government has authorized a substantive upward adjustment in monthly pension stipends.
This increment aligns seamlessly with the Federal Government’s Minimum Wage Act of 2024, which explicitly recommended an additional monthly sum of at least N32,000 for pensioners. Governor Lawal has opted for full implementation of this advisory for all retired state and local government employees a policy intervention expected to benefit thousands of households across Zamfara. The state government has subsequently issued binding directives to all relevant agencies to ensure the expeditious and seamless disbursement of the enhanced payments without procedural delays.
Speaking on the development, the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Culture, Mahmud Muhammad Dantawasa, characterized the policy as a tangible demonstration of Governor Lawal’s unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for both active and former government workers. According to the Commissioner, the administration operates on the principle that dignified retirement includes access to basic necessities and financial comfort. Beneficiaries across all local government areas have been assured of prompt payment once implementation commences.
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