Super Eagles head coach Eric Sékou Chelle has unveiled his 28-man squad for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations, with the tournament set to kick off in Morocco in just 10 days, MySportDab Reports
The roster features a strong blend of experience, returning names, and fresh faces as Nigeria aims to reclaim continental glory.
Chelle’s selections include trusted regulars such as goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, defenders Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and Zaidu Sanusi, midfield anchors Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka, and attacking stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.
These established players will be joined by 20 others who make up a well-balanced and highly competitive squad.
Also included are defenders Chidozie Awaziem and Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Raphael Onyedika, and exciting wingers Samuel Chukwueze and Simon Moses. Cyprus-based goalkeeper Francis Uzoho returns to the team after a spell out, while defender Igoh Ogbu and striker Paul Onuachu also earn call-ups as Chelle strengthens the team’s depth.
The squad features several new entrants who will be representing Nigeria for the first time. England-based Ryan Alebiosu receives his debut call-up along with midfielders Usman Muhammed from Israel, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro from Italy, and Belgium-based Tochukwu Nnadi.
Young Croatian-based forward Salim Fago Lawal also earns his first senior invitation, signalling Chelle’s intention to widen Nigeria’s talent pool.
Nigeria will begin their AFCON preparations with a high-profile friendly match against the Pharaohs of Egypt on Tuesday, 16th December, at the Cairo International Stadium. Two days later, the team will depart for Fès, where they will compete in Group C.
The three-time African champions will open their campaign on 23rd December against the Taifa Stars of Tanzania. They will then face Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles on 27th December before rounding off the group stage against Uganda’s Cranes on 30th December.
With a challenging group ahead, Chelle’s squad depth and tactical flexibility will be crucial.
The Super Eagles travel to Morocco with high expectations from fans and analysts. With a blend of proven performers and emerging talents, Nigeria appears poised for a strong tournament run and a potential push for their fourth AFCON title.
28 Man Squad For 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); 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); Simon Moses (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)
