Nigeria Accelerates AFCON 2025 Preparations with Comprehensive Squad Announcement

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially launched the Super Eagles’ buildup for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with the team’s pre-tournament training camp set to commence on Wednesday, December 10, in Cairo, Egypt. The squad will remain stationed there until just before the tournament kicks off in Morocco.

Provisional 55-Man Squad Revealed by Coach Eric Sékou Chelle

Head coach Eric Sékou Chelle has unveiled a broad 55-player provisional roster, featuring key figures such as captain William Troost-Ekong, prolific striker Victor Osimhen, midfield anchors Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi, alongside the in-form goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. This extensive list also highlights emerging talents from the Nigeria Premier Football League, including Abdulrasheed Shehu, Ebenezer Harcourt, Ekeson Okorie, Chisom Orji, and Adekunle Adeleke.

Within the next few days, the NFF will trim this list to a final 28-man squad, who are expected to report to the Cairo camp on the opening day. The Eagles are scheduled to play two preparatory friendlies, including a marquee match against host nation Egypt, although this fixture faces uncertainty due to delayed player releases from clubs.

Group C Lineup and Match Schedule

Nigeria has been drawn into Group C alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania. Their campaign will begin on December 23, with subsequent matches against Tunisia on December 27 and Uganda on December 30. The Super Eagles are eager to reclaim continental glory after missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.

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Challenges Arising from Club Release Delays Across Europe

One of the major hurdles facing Nigeria’s AFCON preparations is the staggered release of players by their European clubs, which complicates head coach Chelle’s efforts to assemble a full-strength squad promptly.

For instance, Atalanta has stipulated that Ademola Lookman will only be released after their Serie A match against Cagliari on December 13, according to TuttoAtalanta. Lookman, who has regained form with two goals and an assist in his last three outings under coach Raffaele Palladino, is expected to join the national team on December 15, missing the friendly against Egypt on December 14.

Similarly, Hull City is reportedly negotiating with the NFF to delay Semi Ajayi’s departure until after their Championship fixture against Millwall on December 14, potentially postponing his arrival to December 15 or 16.

Chidozie Awaziem has been cleared to participate in Nantes’ Ligue 1 match against Angers on December 12 and is anticipated to travel immediately afterward to join the Eagles ahead of the French Cup round of 32.

Moses Simon’s situation remains uncertain as Paris FC has denied early release for its African players, meaning Simon will stay with the club until December 14, coinciding with the Egypt friendly.

Premier League Players’ Commitments Impact Early Camp Availability

Nigeria’s Premier League representatives also face scheduling conflicts. Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, and Calvin Bassey are all expected to feature for Fulham in their match against Burnley on December 13. Meanwhile, Tolu Arokodare will be in action for Wolverhampton Wanderers against Arsenal during the same weekend, and Brentford’s Frank Onyeka is slated to play against Leeds United on December 14.

These commitments mean that coach Chelle may have to begin camp without several key players, potentially limiting early training sessions to a partial squad.

Looking Ahead: Nigeria’s Quest for AFCON Glory

With the tournament looming, the Super Eagles are determined to bounce back from their recent World Cup qualification disappointment by clinching their fourth Africa Cup of Nations title. The team’s blend of experienced internationals and promising domestic talents aims to restore national pride and deliver a memorable campaign in Morocco.