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The countdown to AFCON 2025 is gaining momentum, with Cairo set to host the Nigerian Super Eagles’ pre-tournament preparations. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially announced that the team will commence their training camp in Egypt starting December 10, as they gear up for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations scheduled to take place in Morocco.
Building Momentum: Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 Preparations Begin
This training camp marks a pivotal phase where tactical strategies will be refined, squad selections finalized, and team cohesion strengthened ahead of the tournament kickoff on December 21. Supporters can anticipate the emergence of the final roster and the unveiling of Coach Eric Sékou Chelle’s game plan during this period.
Coach Chelle’s Extensive Provisional Squad
Coach Chelle has released a broad provisional roster featuring 54 players vying for 28 final spots. This diverse group blends seasoned internationals, promising talents from European leagues, and standout performers from the Nigeria Professional Football League, reflecting a balanced approach to squad assembly.
Key Players and Core Lineup
Among the notable inclusions are captain William Ekong, prolific striker Victor Osimhen, midfield powerhouse Wilfred Ndidi, and first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. The goalkeeping department is further bolstered by Maduka Okoye, intensifying competition for the starting role.
Defensively, the squad retains stalwarts such as Zaidu Sanusi, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Ola Aina, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, underscoring Chelle’s reliance on a solid defensive foundation. The midfield boasts dynamic contributors like Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, and Raphael Onyedika, alongside fresh faces Alhassan Yusuf and Christantus Uche, who bring new energy and creativity.
Attacking Depth and Emerging Talents
The forward line is rich with options, featuring players like Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Simon Moses, Chidera Ejuke, Victor Boniface, Kelechi Iheanacho, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Paul Onuachu. This depth ensures fierce competition for attacking roles and tactical flexibility.
Importantly, the provisional squad also highlights home-based talents such as Abdulrasheed Shehu, Ebenezer Harcourt, Ekeson Okorie, Chisom Orji, and Adekunle Adeleke. Their inclusion signals a strategic blend of domestic league quality with international experience, a trend increasingly seen in successful national teams.
Final Selection and Pre-Tournament Friendlies
The NFF has indicated that the final 28-man squad will be announced shortly. These selected players will convene in Cairo on December 10 to begin intensive training, fitness assessments, and participate in friendly matches designed to sharpen tactics and build team confidence.
These preparatory friendlies are especially critical given Nigeria’s challenging Group C opponents: Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda. The matches will offer valuable insights into the team’s readiness and tactical adaptability.
Strategic Location and Focused Environment
Choosing Cairo as the training base provides a distraction-free setting conducive to concentration, while its proximity to Morocco facilitates smoother travel logistics ahead of the tournament. This strategic decision reflects the NFF’s commitment to optimal preparation conditions.
What to Expect Moving Forward
Fans can look forward to intense competition for starting positions, tactical experimentation under Coach Chelle’s guidance, and early indications of the lineup that will represent Nigeria at AFCON 2025. With the tournament fast approaching, the Super Eagles are poised to showcase a blend of experience, youthful vigor, and strategic acumen on the continental stage.
