Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro has revealed that a late fitness test awaits Zaidu Sanusi to determine his availability for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations final on Sunday.
Sanusi, a regular in the AFCON finals, has made five appearances for Nigeria in Ivory Coast, aiding the team in securing four clean sheets.
Despite missing the Super Eagles' semi-final clash against South Africa, Bright Osayi-Samuel filled in admirably for the Porto left-back.
Peseiro clarified that Sanusi was struggling with a knock sustained in the quarter-final against Angola.
Peseiro updates on Super Eagles defender Sanusi's fitness
Looking ahead to the final on Sunday, Peseiro provided an update on Sanusi's condition.
“Zaidu Sanusi had a conditioning session yesterday; we will conduct the last training session today and check him to see if he will be available,” Peseiro clarified.
In the event that Sanusi is unable to play, Peseiro was confident in in Osayi-Samuel's ability to deliver for Nigeria in the crucial final.
Additionally, there's positive news for the team as Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka is expected to be available for selection against the Elephants.
Despite picking up his second booking of the tournament in the Super Eagles' semi-final win over Bafana Bafana, Onyeka's eligibility is secured, thanks to the reset of yellow cards at the end of the group matches of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria will be confident of securing their fourth AFCON title after beating the Elephants in front of their own fans during the group stage a fortnight ago.
However, much has changed for Ivory Coast in that time, including sacking their coach although the return of Sebastien Haller has breathed new life into their home campaign.
Kick-off is at 9pm Nigeria time on Sunday.
