Nigeria confirm final squad for AFCON 2025
Super Eagles of Nigeria have unveiled the final squad for the highly anticipated AFCON 2025 tournament.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have officially unveiled their final 23-man squad for the highly anticipated 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to kick off in Morocco on December 21.
Head coach Eric Chelle released the list ahead of the CAF submission deadline, trimming down a large provisional pool to a carefully balanced team that blends experienced regulars with promising new faces.
The announcement marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s preparation for the tournament, one in which expectations are sky-high as the nation targets a fourth continental title.
As expected, team talisman and captain Victor Osimhen headlines the squad. His inclusion comes as no surprise, given his crucial role in the Super Eagles’ attack and leadership on and off the pitch.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who faced recent fitness concerns, has also made the final cut and is joined by Francis Uzoho and Amos Obasogie as options in goal. Their selection preserves both experience and depth in that department, strengthening the team’s defensive backbone.
However, the list did not come without surprises and talking points. Several notable names were omitted, generating immediate reactions among fans and analysts. Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was left out despite strong expectations that he would feature.
Equally shocking was the exclusion of prolific forward Victor Boniface, who confirmed the news in a video shared online. Nathan Tella was another name absent from the final squad, prompting further debate over the decisions made by the coaching staff.
On the other side of the spectrum, some emerging talents earned their place in the final squad. Defender Ryan Alebiosu secured a spot as the team looks to cement his international future, while young midfield prospect Ebenezer Akinsanmiro made the cut following impressive performances at club level. These inclusions signal a strategic blend of youth and experience, suggesting that Chelle aims to build a dynamic, flexible squad capable of competing across various match scenarios.
Nigeria’s midfield remains anchored by established figures such as Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Frank Onyeka, all of whom are expected to provide stability, creativity, and control. Their presence brings continuity to the team’s core, offering tactical versatility as Nigeria prepares to face strong opponents in Group C.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions. While some observers applaud the bold selections and the integration of fresh talents, others question the omission of some high-performing players. Reports have also hinted that lobbying and internal pressures may have contributed to delays in the final release of the squad list, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the buildup.
With the squad now confirmed, the Super Eagles will intensify their preparations in the coming days before departing for Morocco. As the countdown to AFCON 2025 edges closer, anticipation continues to grow. All eyes will be on Eric Chelle and his chosen 28 players as Nigeria seeks to reclaim continental glory and write a new chapter in the nation’s football history.
Who the players to represent the Super Eagles of Nigeria at AFCON 2025?
Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania); Francis Uzoho (Omonia FC, Cyprus)
Defenders: Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (Hull City, England); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece); Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes FC, France); Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Portugal); Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague, Czech Republic); Ryan Alebiosu (Blackburn Rovers, England)
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England); Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England); Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas FC, Turkey); Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium); Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (SS Lazio, Italy); Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (Pisa SC, Italy); Usman Muhammed (Ironi Tiberias, Israel); Tochukwu Nnadi (SV Zulte Waregem, Belgium)
Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta BC, Italy); Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham FC, England); Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray FC, Turkey); Simon Moses (Paris FC, France); Chidera Ejuke (Sevilla FC, Spain); Akor Adams (Sevilla FC, Spain); Paul Onuachu (Trabzonspor AS, Turkey); Salim Fago Lawal (NK Istra 1961, Croatia); Cyriel Dessers (Panathinaikos FC, Greece).
Read the Latest AFCON 2025 News Today and Get Fresh updates as they drop via X and Facebook
