Belgian football club, Royal Antwerp, has erupted in celebration following the inclusion of Alhassan Yusuf in Nigeria’s squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. The 23-year-old midfielder was confirmed as a replacement for the injured Wilfred Ndidi from Leicester City, marking his first call-up to the Super Eagles.
In a heartwarming display of support, the Belgian champions took to their official social media account to express their delight, posting, “Alhassan Yusuf has just been called up to the Nigerian national team. Good luck at the Africa Cup, Yus!” This gesture has not gone unnoticed, showcasing the club’s pride in the player’s achievement and their encouragement for his journey on the international stage.
Hailing from his time at IFK Goteborg in Sweden, Yusuf’s rise to the national team comes as a significant milestone in his career. As he prepares to join the Super Eagles at their Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates base, the anticipation for his impact in the tournament continues to grow. Currently, 17 players have already assembled in the team’s camp, adding to the excitement surrounding Nigeria’s prospects in the upcoming AFCON.
Yusuf’s selection resonates not only as a triumph for the player and the national team but also as a testament to the global reach and influence of African football. As the AFCON 2023 draws near, the spotlight on emerging talents like Yusuf amplifies the air of anticipation and fervor, promising an electrifying tournament ahead.