Nigeria Unveils 23-Man Squad for 2015 AFCON Qualifiers Amid Keshi Contract Uncertainty
Nigeria has announced its first post-World Cup squad as preparations begin for the defence of their Africa Cup of Nations title. The Super Eagles, who reached the Round of 16 at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, will face Congo and South Africa in their opening two qualifiers for the 2015 tournament.
While negotiations over a contract extension for coach Stephen Keshi continue, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) revealed a 23-man list on Tuesday for the upcoming fixtures. Keshi, whose future remains undecided, is expected to remain on the bench at least through these crucial qualifiers.
Nigeria hosts Congo on 6 September, after Rwanda’s disqualification from the competition, and then travels to face South Africa four days later.
There are few surprises in the squad. Goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama, despite hinting at international retirement, returns to the team. Key players such as midfielder John Obi Mikel, defender Efe Ambrose, and energetic midfielder Ogenyi Onazi are also named.
However, notable absentees include Shola Ameobi, who is not expected to return to the national team setup, and Victor Moses, who recently signed with Stoke City. Brown Ideye, now at West Bromwich Albion, has also been left out.
The squad blends World Cup experience with a few domestic-based players, including striker Gbolahan Salami and forward Christian Osaguona.
Full Squad List:
Goalkeepers: Vincent Enyeama, Austin Ejide, Chigozie Agbim
Defenders: Elderson Echiejile, Juwon Oshaniwa, Efe Ambrose, Godfrey Oboabona, Azubuike Egwuekwe, Kenneth Omeruo, Kunle Odunlami
Midfielders: John Mikel Obi, Ogenyi Onazi, Ramon Azeez, Joel Obi, Nosa Igiebor
Forwards: Omatsone Aluko, Ahmed Musa, Emmanuel Emenike, Chinedu Obasi, Uche Nwofor, Nnamdi Oduamadi, Gbolahan Salami, Christian Osaguona
Nigeria enters the qualifiers with the pressure of living up to their 2013 AFCON triumph. With uncertainty surrounding the managerial position, the Super Eagles will be hoping that familiar faces and World Cup-tested experience can deliver a strong start to their title defence.
