Nigeria’s national team is gradually building full strength in Cairo as preparations intensify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Morocco.
More players arrived at the Super Eagles’ training base on Monday evening, increasing the number of squad members already present in Egypt.
The Nigerian camp, located at the Renaissance Hotel, now has a growing group of players ready to begin serious tactical work ahead of the upcoming international friendly and the continental competition.
Among the latest arrivals were Wilfred Ndidi, Bruno Onyemaechi, Cyriel Dessers, Akor Adams, and Raphael Onyedika, whose presence pushed the number of players in camp to 21.
Shortly after joining their teammates, the group took part in a full training session held at Cairo International Stadium, marking the first time most of the assembled squad trained together.
Team officials expect several additional players to arrive before the friendly fixture scheduled against Egypt, which will serve as an important preparation match.
The encounter will provide Nigeria’s coaching crew an opportunity to evaluate player combinations and experiment with tactical setups before the tournament begins.
The Super Eagles will face a strong Egyptian side led by Hossam Hassan, a former star striker who once played a key role in the Pharaohs’ continental success.
Egypt’s lineup is expected to revolve around Mohamed Salah, the Liverpool forward who remains one of Africa’s most influential footballers.
The hosts also boast a number of established players from both domestic and European clubs, including Omar Marmoush, Mahmoud Trezeguet, and Mostafa Mohamed.
For Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle, the match will also offer an opportunity to test new faces within the squad.
Several emerging players have been invited to camp as the technical team assesses depth across different positions.
Goalkeeper Amas Obasogie, defender Tochukwu Nnadi, midfield talents Ebenezer Akinsanmiro and Usman Muhammed, along with forwards Paul Onuachu and Salim Fago Lawal, are among those hoping to impress.
Chelle may rely on a core group of experienced internationals to provide stability during the preparations.
Possible starters include Stanley Nwabali between the posts, with Bright Osayi-Samuel, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Zaidu Sanusi forming the defensive line.
The midfield options could feature Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi, while Ademola Lookman is expected to play a key attacking role.
Kick-off for the friendly match has been scheduled for 8:00 pm local time in Egypt, which corresponds to 7:00 pm in Nigeria.
By Monday night, a majority of Nigeria’s squad had already arrived in camp, with the remaining players expected shortly before matchday.
Once the friendly is completed, the team will depart Egypt later in the week on a chartered flight to Fés, the Moroccan city that will serve as Nigeria’s base for the tournament.
Nigeria enters AFCON 2025 aiming to capture its fourth continental title, having previously lifted the trophy in 1980, 1994, and 2013.
In the group stage of the tournament, the Super Eagles are scheduled to face Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda.
Players Currently in Nigeria’s Cairo Camp
The following players had arrived in the Super Eagles’ camp at the time of reporting:
- Stanley Nwabali
- Francis Uzoho
- Amas Obasogie
- Semi Ajayi
- Calvin Bassey
- Zaidu Sanusi
- Bright Osayi-Samuel
- Igho Ogbu
- Tochukwu Nnadi
- Fisayo Dele-Bashiru
- Ebenezer Akinsanmiro
- Alex Iwobi
- Frank Onyeka
- Wilfred Ndidi
- Raphael Onyedika
- Ademola Lookman
- Paul Onuachu
- Cyriel Dessers
- Akor Adams
- Chidera Ejuke
- Bruno Onyemaechi
Additional squad members are expected to join before the team finalizes its preparations.
Commentary and Analysis
Nigeria’s early preparations in Cairo highlight the importance of team cohesion before major international tournaments.
Friendly matches, such as the upcoming clash with Egypt, allow coaches to assess tactical chemistry and evaluate the readiness of both experienced stars and emerging players.
For Nigeria, building a balanced squad will be crucial, especially with strong continental rivals competing for the AFCON title.
The blend of established players like Ndidi and Iwobi alongside younger talents could provide the flexibility needed to compete deep into the tournament.
If the Super Eagles successfully integrate these players during their training camp, they may enter AFCON 2025 with renewed confidence and a realistic chance of challenging for another continental crown.
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