AFCON 2025: Nigeria adjust training plans after controversial FIFA directive

The Nigeria Football Federation has revised the Super Eagles training plans for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after controversial FIFA directive regarding player release date.

The 35th edition of the continental showpiece has been scheduled between December 2025 and January 2026 in Morocco, with 24 countries set to battle it out for the covetous trophy.

Initially, clubs were mandated to release players for major tournaments 14 days before its commencement. Amid pressure from European clubs, the world football governing body (FIFA) has soften it stands, giving just seven days for the release of players.

However, the Super Eagles has been compelled to revise both the venue and the start date of their preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The West African football heavyweights will now open their training camp on December 14, shifting from the earlier planned date of December 10.

Besides, the team has also altered its training base. The proposed training camp in Egypt has been cancelled, with the team expected to commence preparation in Morocco instead.

Nigeria finished as runners-up in the last AFCON, held in Ivory Coast after falling 2–1 to the Elephants in a tightly contested final.

The Super Eagles are paired in Group C against Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations. The three-rime AFCON holders will open their AFCON account against Tanzania on December 23, 2025 in Morocco.