The Super Eagles of Nigeria have unveiled a strong and balanced squad for their upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda. The announcement has generated excitement among fans, as several key players make their return from injury, signaling Nigeria’s intent to secure their place in the prestigious tournament.
Captain William Troost-Ekong, who was named Man of the Competition at the recent AFCON, headlines the list of returning stars. The experienced defender missed the Matchdays 3 and 4 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in June due to injury, but his return is expected to reinforce Nigeria’s defense. Also back in the squad are wing-back Olaoluwa Aina, and forwards Victor Osimhen and Taiwo Awoniyi, who have all recovered from injuries that kept them out of recent international duties.
Victor Osimhen, Africa’s reigning Player of the Year, is a notable inclusion among the returnees. His return is expected to significantly bolster Nigeria’s attack, as he aims to continue his prolific goal-scoring form at the international level. Taiwo Awoniyi, who last played for the Super Eagles in their 1-1 draw with Lesotho during the World Cup qualifiers last November, also makes his return, adding depth and versatility to the forward line.
The squad features a balanced mix of three goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders, and seven forwards, reflecting the depth and versatility of the team. Notably, AFCON 2023 standout Stanley Nwabali and Bendel Insurance’s Amas Obasogie have been included in the goalkeeping department. South Africa-based defender Olisa Ndah also returns to the fold, strengthening the defensive options available.
The Super Eagles will face the Cheetahs of Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday, 7th September. Following this home fixture, they will travel to Kigali to take on Rwanda’s Amavubi at the Amahoro Stadium on Tuesday, 10th September. The team is expected to report to camp in Uyo by Monday, 2nd September, to begin preparations for these crucial encounters.
**Full Squad List:**
**Goalkeepers:**
– Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)
– Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy)
– Amas Obasogie (Bendel Insurance FC, Nigeria)
**Defenders:**
– William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood FC, Saudi Arabia)
– Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey)
– Olisa Ndah (Orlando Pirates, South Africa)
– Bruno Onyemaechi (Boavista FC, Portugal)
– Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England)
– Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England)
– Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England)
**Midfielders:**
– Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England)
– Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium)
– Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA)
– Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio FC, Italy)
– Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England)
– Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England)
**Forwards:**
– Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy)
– Victor Osimhen (SSC Napoli, Italy)
– Kelechi Iheanacho (Sevilla FC, Spain)
– Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)
– Moses Simon (FC Nantes, France)
– Ademola Lookman (Atalanta FC, Italy)
– Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest, England)
As Nigeria gears up for these critical qualifiers, the return of key players and the blend of experienced and emerging talents in the squad has boosted optimism. The Super Eagles are set to make a strong push for qualification, with hopes of a successful campaign in the upcoming matches.
