Nigeria’s national football team has begun assembling in Egypt as preparations intensify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Several members of the Super Eagles squad have already reported to the team’s base in Cairo, signaling the start of the country’s build-up to one of Africa’s biggest football competitions.
Among the earliest arrivals was South Africa-based goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who reached the team’s camp ahead of many of his teammates. His arrival marked the beginning of what is expected to be a gradual gathering of the full squad in the Egyptian capital.
Shortly afterward, more players joined the camp located at the Renaissance Hotels in Cairo. Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho was part of the next wave of arrivals, accompanied by two players based in Italy—Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro. Their presence added momentum to the team’s preparations as Nigeria begins to focus on tactical work ahead of the tournament.
The list of players expected to join the squad soon also includes several key names. Later arrivals were projected to feature defenders and midfielders such as Igoh Ogbu, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Tochukwu Nnadi, Amas Obasogie, Ademola Lookman, and Semi Ajayi, completing another group of important additions to the camp.
Early Schedule for the Team
Before the official AFCON matches begin, the Super Eagles have lined up important preparatory activities:
- First training session: Scheduled for Monday in Cairo
- International friendly: Nigeria vs Egypt on December 16
- Venue for friendly: Cairo International Stadium
This warm-up match against Egypt’s Pharaohs will give the coaching staff an opportunity to evaluate the squad and finalize tactical plans before the tournament begins.
Coach Eric Chelle’s Squad Selection
Head coach Eric Chelle recently announced the final 28-player squad for the competition. His list reflects a balance between experienced internationals and emerging players, suggesting an attempt to combine stability with fresh energy.
Some of the established figures expected to play crucial roles include:
| Experienced Core Players |
|---|
| Stanley Nwabali |
| Calvin Bassey |
| Wilfred Ndidi |
| Frank Onyeka |
| Victor Osimhen |
| Ademola Lookman |
One of the major talking points from the squad announcement was the return of Francis Uzoho, who had been absent from the national team for several months. Meanwhile, Maduka Okoye did not make the final list.
The squad also features the comeback of players such as Igoh Ogbu and striker Paul Onuachu, while a number of fresh faces received their first opportunity with the national side. Newcomers include Ryan Alebiosu, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Usman Muhammed, Tochukwu Nnadi, and Croatia-based striker Salim Fago Lawal.
Nigeria’s AFCON Group Fixtures
Following their preparation in Egypt, the Super Eagles will relocate to Fès, Morocco, where they will play all their Group C matches. Nigeria’s group stage schedule is as follows:
| Date | Opponent |
|---|---|
| December 23 | Tanzania |
| December 27 | Tunisia |
| December 30 | Uganda |
These matches will determine whether Nigeria progresses to the knockout stages of the competition.
Commentary and Analysis
Nigeria enters AFCON 2025 with a mixture of optimism and pressure. The inclusion of both seasoned players and debutants could provide the squad with a healthy balance of leadership and fresh enthusiasm.
Coach Eric Chelle’s decisions—particularly recalling Uzoho and introducing several new players—suggest a strategy aimed at strengthening competition within the team. This could push established stars like Victor Osimhen and Wilfred Ndidi to lead by example while younger players attempt to prove their value on the continental stage.
The friendly against Egypt will be a crucial test. Facing a strong African opponent before the tournament begins should help the Super Eagles identify tactical strengths and weaknesses ahead of the demanding group matches in Morocco.
Ultimately, Nigeria’s success at AFCON 2025 may depend on how quickly the squad builds chemistry during these early days in camp.
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