AFCON 2023: Jupiler Pro League champions reacts as Alhassan Yusuf replaces Ndidi
Wilfred Ndidi has been ruled out of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, and Alhassan Yusuf has received a call-up to replace him
Belgiumâs reigning Jupiler Pro League champions, Royal Antwerp, have responded to Alhassan Yusufâs inclusion in Nigeriaâs squad for the highly anticipated 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 23-year-old midfielder was officially named the replacement for injured Leicester City star Wilfred Ndidi, marking his debut call-up to the esteemed Super Eagles.
In a gesture of support, the Belgian champions conveyed their best wishes to Yusuf via their official X (formerly Twitter) platform, expressing their excitement as he prepares to represent Nigeria in the upcoming continental tournament.
âAlhassan Yusuf has just been called up to the Nigerian national team. Good luck at the Africa Cup, Yus!,â shared Royal Antwerp through their social media page.
Alhassan Yusuf werd zonet opgeroepen voor de Nigeriaanse nationale ploeg. Veel succes op de Africa Cup, Yus! đđŽâȘ pic.twitter.com/EZaj9GOFnE
â Royal Antwerp FC (@official_rafc) January 3, 2024
Yusuf, formerly with IFK Goteborg in Sweden, is set to join the Super Eagles at their training base in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, later today.
Currently, 21 players have assembled at the teamâs camp, undergoing preparations for a pre-tournament competition before their departure for CĂŽte dâIvoire.
With 25 appearances for the Belgian side under his belt this season, Yusuf notably contributed a goal during their UEFA Champions League encounter against Porto FC and provided an assist in their 3-2 victory against Barcelona.
As the tournament approaches, Yusufâs addition to the Super Eaglesâ roster is expected to inject a sense of hope in the Super Eagles midfield.
Ayomide Oguntimehin
Ayomide holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English and currently works as a News Writer. He has more than five years of experience in digital journalism, with a strong background in researching and writing compelling news.
