The Panathinaikos forward had been nursing the problem and was unable to feature in any of the Super Eagles’ group-stage matches against Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda.
After undergoing a scan to assess the extent of the injury, it was confirmed that Dessers will take no further part in Nigeria’s quest for a fourth continental title in North Africa.
According to a statement released to Flashscore.com, the 31-year-old has returned to his Greek club to continue his rehabilitation and recovery process.
A Super Eagles official has described Cyriel Dessers’ withdrawal from the squad as a significant setback but insists Eric Chelle’ men remain fully focused on the task ahead.
"He left the team’s hotel a few hours ago, and it is a big blow for us because we all know what he brings to the group,” the official, who spoke anonymously to Flashscore, said.
"It’s a tough reality to deal with, especially because everyone knew how much he was looking forward to this competition.
"We are confident the other players in camp are ready to step up and make up for his absence. This is a team with several options, and everyone is focused on getting the job done against Mozambique.
"We won’t let this affect us in any way. We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming him back to the squad in the future."
Meanwhile, Blackburn Rovers defender Alebiosu remains a major doubt for the clash with the Mambas after sitting out the team’s training session on Friday evening.
The defender impressed in Nigeria’s 3–1 victory over Uganda, playing the full 90 minutes in place of Bright Osayi-Samuel.
However, despite his strong display, he sustained a cut to his leg during the match and was taken to the hospital, leaving his availability for the next game uncertain.
In a related development, Tochukwu Nnadi also missed training with the three-time African champions after coming down with a cold.
The Zulte Waregem midfielder featured against the Cranes, coming on for the final 14 minutes after replacing Paul Onuachu.
Chelle’s side will face Mozambique on January 5 at the Fez Stadium, with a quarter-final clash against either Algeria or DR Congo awaiting them should they progress.
