Eric Chelle announces final 28-man Nigeria squad for AFCON 2025

Super Eagles head coach Eric Sékou Chelle has unveiled his final squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, selecting a blend of established stars, returning names, and fresh faces as Nigeria prepares for the tournament in Morocco, which begins in ten days.

The squad features key figures such as goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, defenders Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and Zaidu Sanusi, midfield anchors Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka, and attacking duo Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, alongside twenty others.

Chelle also handed places to defenders Chidozie Awaziem and Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Raphael Onyedika, as well as forwards Samuel Chukwueze and Simon Moses. There is a notable return for goalkeeper Francis Uzoho, defender Igoh Ogbu and striker Paul Onuachu, all of whom are back in contention for a major tournament.

The squad also includes several newcomers who will be linking up with the team for the first time. England-based defender Ryan Alebiosu, midfielders Usman Muhammed, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro and Tochukwu Nnadi, as well as Croatia-based forward Salim Fago Lawal, have all earned their maiden call-ups.

Nigeria will fine-tune their preparations with a friendly against Egypt’s Pharaohs on Tuesday, 16th December at the Cairo Stadium. Two days later, the team will depart Cairo for Fès, their base for Group C.

The Super Eagles are set to open their AFCON campaign against Tanzania on 23rd December, followed by clashes with Tunisia on 27th December and Uganda on 30th December as they aim to pursue a fourth continental crown.

Below is the full squad named by Eric Chelle.