Nigeria’s preparations for next month’s World Cup qualifiers have been dealt a serious setback after forward Cyriel Dessers suffered an injury during Rangers’ UEFA Champions League playoff match against Viktoria Plzen.
The Super Eagles will face South Africa and Rwanda in September as they push for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Head coach Eric Chelle could now be without one of his most trusted attacking options.
Dessers, who recently shone in Nigeria’s Unity Cup triumph, started the second leg against Plzen after scoring in Rangers’ dominant 3–0 win in the first leg.
But his night took a turn early in the second half when he appeared to twist his knee and ankle while challenging for the ball.
Painful Exit for Nigeria’s Forward
The injury occurred in the 51st minute with Rangers still holding an aggregate lead. A stretcher was called for but eventually not used. Two medical staff members helped the 30-year-old striker off the field before he was replaced by Danilo.
Earlier in the game, Dessers had already required treatment for another knock but managed to continue until the second incident forced him out. After the match, he was seen wearing a brace, and medical tests will confirm the severity of the damage.
Rangers went on to lose the game 2–1 on the night but progressed to the next round of qualifying, where they will meet Club Brugge. The victory came at a cost, however, with the injury casting doubt over Dessers’ availability for club and country in the coming weeks.
Impact on Nigeria’s World Cup Campaign
Eric Chelle is expected to rely on Victor Osimhen as his first-choice striker for the qualifiers, but Dessers has been a vital backup and alternative option.
Without him, Chelle’s attacking depth will be reduced, leaving fewer choices if injuries or suspensions occur during the qualifying matches.
The situation could also affect Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations plans if the forward faces a long spell on the sidelines. For now, Chelle will be hoping that his other attacking players remain fit ahead of the crucial matches in September.
