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The AFCON 2025 tournament launches tonight at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah in Rabat, featuring the host nation Morocco facing off against Comoros, according to Soccernet.ng.
Last year’s runners-up, Nigeria, are determined to surpass their previous achievement in Ivory Coast by clinching the title in North Africa this year. Their opening challenge will be against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars.
Regarded as one of the tournament favorites, the Super Eagles aim to start strong under the guidance of their experienced squad as they prepare to face Miguel Gamondi’s team.
In anticipation of this encounter, Soccernet.ng spotlights five key Nigerian players poised to influence the outcome when the match kicks off at the Complexe Sportif de Fès on Tuesday.
AFCON 2025: Nigerian Super Eagles’ Key Players to Monitor Against Tanzania
Wilfred Ndidi: The Midfield General
Wilfred Ndidi, currently playing for Besiktas JK, has been a stalwart in Nigeria’s midfield since his debut in 2015. His decade-long international experience will be invaluable, especially since he missed the last AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.
Following the retirements of veterans Ahmed Musa and William Troost-Ekong, Ndidi has been entrusted with the captaincy of the three-time African champions. His leadership and composure will be critical as he leads the team against Tanzania.
Victor Osimhen: The Prolific Striker
Victor Osimhen, now with Galatasaray, remains Nigeria’s most lethal attacking threat. The former CAF Player of the Year consistently energizes the Super Eagles with his relentless pressing and goal-scoring prowess.
When Osimhen is absent, Nigeria’s offensive threat diminishes significantly. His presence against Tanzania will be pivotal in setting the tone for the group stage, as he looks to continue his impressive form in Morocco.
Ademola Lookman: The Dynamic Winger
Since switching allegiance from England to Nigeria in 2022, Ademola Lookman has emerged as a vital attacking option. His breakthrough came during AFCON 2023, where he netted three goals, tying as the team’s top scorer alongside the retired William Troost-Ekong.
In 2023, Lookman also celebrated winning the UEFA Europa League with Atalanta, marking the club’s first major trophy. His outstanding performances earned him 14th place in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings. Although his form for Nigeria has fluctuated since, he aims to recapture his AFCON brilliance starting with the match against Tanzania.
Calvin Bassey: Defensive Backbone
Fulham’s Calvin Bassey has been a key figure in Nigeria’s defense, forging a solid partnership with Semi Ajayi and William Troost-Ekong during AFCON 2023. With Ekong’s retirement, Bassey now shoulders the responsibility of organizing the backline.
His aggressive style and resilience will be essential in containing Tanzania’s attacking threats and maintaining defensive stability.
Stanley Nwabali: The Last Line of Defense
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who rose to prominence during AFCON 2023, remains a vital asset for Nigeria. Despite concerns over his fitness ahead of the tournament, his shot-stopping abilities and command of the penalty area are crucial for the Super Eagles’ ambitions.
Should Nwabali be sidelined, Nigeria’s alternatives lack his reliability, potentially jeopardizing their defensive solidity.
