2023 AFCON: Osayi-Samuel hit by a bout of food poisoning ahead of Ivory Coast v Nigeria 

Fenerbahce fullback Bright Osayi-Samuel has made himself available for selection for Thursday’s highly anticipated meeting between Ivory Coast and Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. 

Osayi-Samuel was hit by a bout of food poisoning ahead of tomorrow’s showdown at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Abidjan.

The right-back has played down the severity of the ailment, confirming that he should be in contention to be included in the gameday squad for the matchday two Group A fixture. 

Manager Jose Peseiro went for experience and versatility over experiment when he picked his starting lineup in the opener against Equatorial Guinea as he handed a starting berth to Ola Aina over Osayi-Samuel.  

The Blackpool academy product came on for his Africa Cup of Nations debut in the 82nd minute of the 1-1 draw, replacing his rival Aina. 

“I’ve got food poisoning and feel week but I should be okay,” Osayi-Samuel said to Brila FM.  

Since making his Super Eagles debut in a friendly against Portugal last November, Osayi-Samuel has totaled 10 games for the national team, one more than the number of matches Aina has played in at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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