Dessers Returns to Training After AFCON 2025 Injury Setback
Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers has resumed light training for the first time since suffering an injury at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Dessers, who was named in Eric Chelle’s final 28-man squad for the tournament, saw his campaign cut short before Nigeria’s last group game against Uganda after scans revealed a muscle problem.
The setback denied him the chance to feature prominently in his first major tournament for the national team.
Following his withdrawal, the former UEFA Europa League top scorer returned to his Greek club Panathinaikos to begin rehabilitation. He has since missed several Super League 1 fixtures.
Ahead of Panathinaikos’ clash with AEL on Sunday, the club confirmed that Dessers has stepped back onto the pitch, beginning individual recovery drills.
‘The program included a warm-up, tactical drills, and a game. For the first time since his injury with the Nigerian national team, Cyriel Dessers began an individual program and running on the pitch,’ the club wrote on its official website.
The development marks a significant step in his recovery, with Dessers now working towards full fitness after weeks of absence.
While he is not yet ready for competitive action, his return to the grass is seen as a positive sign for both Panathinaikos and the Super Eagles.
