The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to battle in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a final 28-man squad announced by head coach Eric Chelle. The squad announcement came after months of preparation, training camps, and preliminary matches. Chelle trimmed an initial 50-man provisional squad down to 28 players, ensuring a balanced mix of experience and youth for the continental showpiece.
The announcement was made ahead of the December 10 deadline for submission of final squad lists to the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The Nigerian team will compete against other top African nations in what promises to be a highly competitive tournament.
One of the most notable developments in Chelle’s final selection is the absence of captain William Troost-Ekong, who retired from international football last week. The former captain leaves a leadership void that will now be filled by vice-captains Wilfred Ndidi and Victor Osimhen. Both players bring significant experience to the squad, with Ndidi anchoring the midfield and Osimhen leading the attack.
Chelle’s squad demonstrates a strong European influence, with players spread across several top leagues on the continent and beyond.
Goalkeepers: The Nigerian goalkeeping department features Stanley Nwabali of Chippa United (South Africa), Amas Obasogie of Singida Blackstars (Tanzania), and Francis Uzoho of Omonia FC (Cyprus). Uzoho, who has previously represented Nigeria in multiple AFCON tournaments, is expected to be the first-choice goalkeeper.
Defenders: Nigeria’s defence is anchored by a blend of European-based talents. Key defenders include Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England), Semi Ajayi (Hull City, England), Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England), and Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece). Other defenders include Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes, France), Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Portugal), Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague, Czech Republic), and Ryan Alebiosu (Blackburn Rovers, England). The squad boasts height, pace, and versatility in defensive positions, essential qualities to counter Africa’s varied attacking threats.
Midfielders: Nigeria’s midfield is a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents. Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England), Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England), Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas, Turkey), Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium), Tochukwu Nnadi (Zulte Waregem, Belgium), Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (SS Lazio, Italy), Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (Pisa SC, Italy), and Usman Muhammed (Ironi Tiberias, Israel) make up the midfield. Ndidi is expected to be the midfield general, providing defensive stability, while Iwobi and Onyeka add creativity and attacking impetus.
Forwards: The attacking lineup includes some of Nigeria’s most exciting talents. Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy), Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham, England), Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey), Simon Moses (Paris FC, France), Chidera Ejuke (Sevilla, Spain), Akor Adams (Sevilla, Spain), Paul Onuachu (Trabzonspor, Turkey), Cyriel Dessers (Panathinaikos, Greece), and Salim Fago Lawal (NK Istra 1961, Croatia) round out the forward line. Osimhen, as vice-captain, will lead the frontline, and his scoring prowess will be crucial for Nigeria’s ambitions in the tournament.
The retirement of William Troost-Ekong marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s leadership structure. The former captain had been a defensive stalwart for several years, representing Nigeria in multiple AFCON tournaments and international qualifiers. His departure will require other players to step up, particularly in defence.
Coach Chelle has placed confidence in vice-captains Wilfred Ndidi and Victor Osimhen. Ndidi’s defensive midfield role provides balance and protection to the backline, while Osimhen’s leadership and goal-scoring abilities make him a natural choice to inspire the team in attack. Together, they are expected to maintain team cohesion and ensure Nigeria’s competitive edge in the tournament.
Nigeria has a rich history in the Africa Cup of Nations, winning the tournament three times (1980, 1994, and 2013) and finishing as runners-up on multiple occasions. The Super Eagles are traditionally strong contenders, and expectations are high for 2025.
Coach Chelle has emphasized team unity, discipline, and tactical awareness in preparation for the tournament. Training camps have included rigorous physical conditioning, friendly matches against competitive teams, and detailed tactical sessions to ensure players understand their roles. Chelle has also focused on integrating younger talents into the squad, giving the team fresh energy while maintaining experienced players for balance.
The selection of players across multiple European and African leagues demonstrates Nigeria’s global football influence. Players are accustomed to different playing styles, which will help the team adapt to the challenges posed by other top African nations.
The announcement of the final squad has sparked a lively debate among fans and sports analysts. Many expressed excitement over the inclusion of younger talents, while some lamented the absence of long-time stalwarts like Troost-Ekong. Social media platforms have been buzzing with discussions about potential starting lineups, tactical formations, and Nigeria’s chances of lifting the trophy.
AFCON 2025 will bring together the best football nations in Africa. Teams are competing not only for the prestigious trophy but also for qualification to other international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup. Nigeria will aim to navigate the group stage successfully before progressing to the knockout rounds.
With Chelle’s squad, Nigeria is expected to adopt a balanced approach, combining strong defensive organization with attacking creativity. Fans and football enthusiasts will be watching closely to see how the Super Eagles perform on the continental stage.
