Nigeria's Flying Eagles have received a significant injury boost ahead of their crucial semi-final clash against South Africa at the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations, as midfielder Divine Oliseh has been cleared to play.
Oliseh, who suffered a concussion during Nigeria's hard-fought quarter-final victory over Senegal on Monday, was initially feared to be sidelined for several days according to standard concussion protocols.
However, in a positive development for the Nigerian team, the playmaker has made a swift recovery, participating in full training with his teammates on Wednesday and is now ready for action against the Amajita of South Africa.
The semi-final encounter is scheduled to take place on Thursday at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia, Egypt, with kick-off set for 4 pm Nigerian time.
Oliseh's availability comes as welcome news for the Flying Eagles' technical crew led by coach Zubairu, who had previously expressed confidence in his team's readiness to overcome the South African challenge.
The Nigerian team secured their FIFA U-20 World Cup qualification through their quarter-final victory and are now aiming to reach the final of the continental tournament.
Both teams have shown determination ahead of the clash, with the Flying Eagles' goalkeeper reportedly expressing confidence that South Africa cannot stop their progress in the tournament.
Coach Zubairu has also promised that fans will see a more composed Nigerian side in the semi-final encounter as they pursue continental glory.