Flying Eagles head coach Aliyu Zubairu has rolled out a strong 35-man provisional squad for the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), featuring seven foreign-based stars ready to power Nigeria toward an eighth continental crown.
The tournament, which kicks off April 27 in Cairo, Egypt, marks another opportunity for Nigeria to flex its rich football pedigree. Coach Zubairu has turned to a blend of local league standouts and Europe-trained talents, creating a squad brimming with potential.
Among the top international call-ups are Emmanuel Chukwu and Benjamin Precious of Bundesliga side TSG Hoffenheim, known for their tactical intelligence and commanding presence on the pitch. Also making the list is Umar Abubakar of KAA Gent, a dynamic forward whose finishing and movement have earned him rising-star status.
Spain-based Ibrahim Alam (Real Valladolid) brings creative flair to the midfield, while Israel Ayuma (NK Istra, Croatia) and Caleb Ochedikwu (NK Ujanik, Montenegro) add depth and versatility. In goal, Serbian-based Soliu Ajia (FK Novi Pazar) bolsters the squad with European-seasoned confidence.
Zubairu’s selection also honours the WAFU Zone B Championship-winning squad, with key players like captain Daniel Bamaiyi, Ebenezer Harcourt, and Sulaiman Alabi ‘Jojo’ returning to provide leadership and experience.
The provisional list includes:
- 3 Goalkeepers
- 8 Defenders
- 11 Midfielders
- 13 Forwards
The final 21-man roster will be confirmed at least 10 days before kickoff.
With a mix of homegrown grit and overseas polish, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles aren’t just eyeing AFCON glory—they’re aiming to punch their ticket to the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Full Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers: Rufai Abubakar (Mavlon FC) Soliu Ajia (FK Novi Pazar, Serbia) Ebenezer Harcourt (Sporting Lagos)
Defenders: Emmanuel Chukwu (TSG Hoffenheim, Germany) Kenneth Igbokwe (Enugu Rangers) Daniel Bamaiyi (Bayelsa United) Adewale Quadin (Nath Boys) Afamu Maigari (El-Kanemi Warriors) Odinaka Emmanuel (Sporting Lagos) Chigozie Ihejifor (Katsina United) Haruna Aliyu (Wikki Tourists)
Midfielders: Michael Tunde (Simoiben) Auwal Ibrahim (Akwa United) Akin Oluwashile (Water FC) Israel Ayuma (NK Istra, Croatia) Cletus Simon (Mavlon FC) Caleb Ochedikwu (NK Ujanik, Montenegro) Ibrahim Alam (Real Valladolid, Spain) Sulaiman Alabi ‘Jojo’ (El-Kanemi Warriors) Shafiu Duguri (Wikki Tourists) Nasiru Salihu (El-Kanemi Warriors) Sabiu Mohammed (Niger Tornadoes)
Forwards: Adeleke Abdulmuiz (Adoration FC) Armiyu Yushua (Katsina United) Mustapha Umar (Kano Pillars) Anthony Ezekiel (Inspire FC) Otu Joseph (Moralo FC) Oliseh Divine (Fosta Academy) Clinton Jephta (Enyimba) Bidemi Amole (Real Sapphire) Umar Abubakar (KAA Gent, Belgium) Trahir Maigana (Wireless FC) Rickson Mendos (Niger Tornadoes) Mathew Kingsley (Kings FC) Benjamin Precious (TSG Hoffenheim, Germany)
