Chelle Announces Final 28-Man Super Eagles Squad for AFCON 2025

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has announced Nigeria’s final 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, with the tournament scheduled to begin on December 21, 2025.

The final list was trimmed from a 54-player provisional roster and submitted before the Confederation of African Football deadline.

The final squad blends established internationals with emerging talents and includes striker Victor Osimhen and midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, both expected to play key roles in Nigeria’s campaign.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was retained in the final list despite earlier injury concerns, alongside returned goalkeeper Francis Uzoho and Amas Obasogie.

Several high-profile absentees were noted, including Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare, and Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina, who misses out due to injury. Captain William Troost-Ekong is also absent following his recent retirement from international football.

The selection reflects coach Chelle’s emphasis on squad balance and depth as Nigeria prepares for one of Africa’s premier football competitions.

The final list includes a mix of experienced defenders such as Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, with midfield and attacking options centred around Ndidi and Osimhen.

Newer names including right back Ryan Alebiosu and midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, provide additional option ahead of the tournament.

With AFCON 2025 approaching, Nigeria will begin its preparations ahead of the opening game, aiming to contend for a fourth continental title after a disappointing failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Super Eagles are drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania, with their campaign kicking off on December 23.