With barely ten days to the kickoff of the thirty-fifth Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, the anticipation surrounding the Super Eagles reached new heights on Thursday as Head Coach Eric Sékou Chelle released a strong and confidently curated twenty-eight-man squad. It is a list that carries a clear message. Nigeria is not travelling to Morocco to make up the numbers. The team is going in search of a fourth continental crown that has been out of reach for more than a decade.
Chelle’s squad reveals a thoughtful blend of experience and youth, with several familiar faces returning to the fold and a few exciting newcomers stepping onto the AFCON stage for the first time. It is a team built on balance, energy, and the desire to correct the close misses of the previous edition.
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In goal, Stanley Nwabali leads the line of trusted hands after his excellent showing at the last AFCON. He is joined by Amas Obasogie and Francis Uzoho, whose return to the squad adds depth and competition in a department that Nigeria has often debated intensely.
The defensive line features a robust mix of reliable regulars and in-form returnees. Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Zaidu Sanusi continue their long-standing roles in the squad. Chidozie Awaziem and Bruno Onyemaechi remain part of the manager’s long-term defensive structure, while Igoh Ogbu earns a deserved recall following a solid run of club performances. Newcomer Ryan Alebiosu, born in England and on the rise in the Championship, receives his first tournament call-up.
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Chelle’s midfield, built on power, creativity, and versatility, brings together some of Nigeria’s most dynamic talents. Alex Iwobi and Frank Onyeka return to anchor the middle of the park, supported by Wilfred Ndidi, who now plays in Turkey. Younger talents like Raphael Onyedika, Tochukwu Nnadi, Fisayo Dele Bashiru, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, and Usman Muhammed introduce fresh energy and tactical flexibility. The inclusion of Belgium-based prospect Tochukwu Nnadi reinforces the manager’s commitment to building a team for both the present and the future.
The attack is led by two of Africa’s most influential stars. Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman headline a forward line stacked with speed, power, and clinical finishing. They are accompanied by Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Chidera Ejuke, Akor Adams, Cyriel Dessers, and the returning Paul Onuachu, who earns his first invitation under Chelle. Young Croatian-based forward Salim Fago Lawal completes the attacking list.
As part of their final preparations, the Super Eagles will face seven-time champions Egypt in a high-profile friendly at the Cairo International Stadium on Tuesday the 16th of December. The match will give Chelle a crucial opportunity to test his tactical combinations before the team departs Cairo two days later for Fes, their base for the Group C campaign.
Nigeria begins its AFCON journey on the 23rd of December against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars. The Super Eagles will then face perennial rivals Tunisia on the 27th before wrapping up the group phase on the 30th against Uganda’s resilient Cranes.
The squad’s strength, depth, and the hunger shared among both new and returning players have revived optimism among fans who have waited impatiently for Nigeria’s next continental triumph. Morocco 2025 presents another chance, and for Chelle’s Super Eagles, the mission is simple. Bring the title home.
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Full Super Eagles Squad for AFCON Morocco 2025
Goalkeepers:
Stanley Nwabali Chippa United South Africa
Amas Obasogie Singida Blackstars Tanzania
Francis Uzoho Omonia FC Cyprus
Defenders:
Calvin Bassey Fulham FC England
Semi 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
Tochukwu Nnadi Zulte Waregem Belgium
Fisayo Dele Bashiru SS Lazio Italy
Ebenezer Akinsanmiro Pisa SC Italy
Usman Muhammed Ironi Tiberias Israel
Forwards:
Ademola Lookman Atalanta BC Italy
Samuel Chukwueze Fulham FC England
Victor Osimhen Galatasaray FC Turkey
Moses Simon Paris FC France
Chidera Ejuke Sevilla FC Spain
Akor Adams Sevilla FC Spain
Paul Onuachu Trabzonspor AS Turkey
Cyriel Dessers Panathinaikos FC Greece
Salim Fago Lawal NK Istra 1961 Croatia
