The road to Morocco has officially begun for the Super Eagles, as Nigeria finally unveiled its 23-man squad for the much-anticipated AFCON 2025 tournament.
With the competition set to kick off on December 21, head coach Eric Chelle has now closed the chapter on speculations, trimming a wide provisional list into a carefully assembled group that mixes trusted veterans with hungry new arrivals.
The announcement released just before CAF’s deadline marks a key milestone in Nigeria’s push for a fourth continental crown, and the mood around the squad reflects the weight of expectation.
Unsurprisingly, the familiar name leading the charge is team captain and talisman Victor Osimhen, whose presence remains central to Nigeria’s attacking identity and dressing-room spirit.
Between the sticks, goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali overcame recent injury concerns to secure his place. He will be joined by Francis Uzoho and Amos Obasogie, giving the team a blend of stability and fresh options in a role that has sparked much debate over the past year.
But no squad unveiling is complete without a bit of drama, and Chelle’s list delivered just that. Some notable omissions set social media buzzing almost instantly. Udinese shot-stopper Maduka Okoye did not cut, despite widespread belief that he would.
The exclusion of striker Victor Boniface, who personally confirmed the news in a video, added another twist, while Nathan Tella’s absence raised further eyebrows.
Still, the squad carries its share of pleasant surprises. Defender Ryan Alebiosu earned his stripes and booked a ticket to Morocco, a move many interpret as the coaching crew securing his long-term international commitment.
Young midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro also broke into the final squad on the strength of his club form, signaling a clear desire to inject fresh energy into the setup.
In midfield, Nigeria continues to rely on seasoned campaigners Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Frank Onyeka, players known for their tactical discipline and ability to dictate play. Surrounded by emerging talents, they are expected to anchor a dynamic unit capable of adapting to the unpredictable nature of AFCON football.
As reactions pour in, opinions remain divided. Some fans applaud Chelle’s bold calls and the balance of youth and experience, while others question the absence of certain high-performing stars.
There have even been hints that lobbying and behind-the-scenes pressures played a role in the delayed release of the final list, adding a dash of intrigue to the buildup.
With the roster now sealed, the Super Eagles will shift gears into full preparation mode before jetting off to Morocco. And as the countdown tightens, one thing is certain: Nigerians everywhere will be watching this 2025 squad closely, hoping this group—built for grit, speed, and versatility—can finally bring home a long-awaited fourth AFCON trophy.
Final 23-Man Super Eagles 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)
• Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (SS Lazio, Italy)
• Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (Pisa SC, Italy)
• Usman Muhammed (Ironi Tiberias, Israel)
• Tochukwu Nnadi (SV Zulte Waregem, Belgium)
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)
• Salim Fago Lawal (NK Istra 1961, Croatia)
• Cyriel Dessers (Panathinaikos FC, Greece)
The Super Eagles squad for #AFCON2025 is set.
Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi and 26 others will fly the flag in Morocco under Eric Chelle.
Naija, let’s go again. 🦅🇳🇬#Naija4TheWin #LetsDoItAgain pic.twitter.com/eKR3IHOii6
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) December 11, 2025