By Ifeanyi Uwagwu
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has released a 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, with the Super Eagles aiming to reclaim continental glory after narrowly missing out on the title in Côte d’Ivoire last year.
The list was released via the Super Eagles handle on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday night.
Nigeria finished as runners-up in the 2024 tournament, squandering a first-half lead to lose 2–1 to the hosts in a tense final. This time, the team will be determined to go one step further and lift the trophy for the first time since 2013.
The squad, unveiled on Thursday, features a mix of established stars, rising talents, and several players in blistering club form. With qualification for next year’s FIFA World Cup having painfully slipped from their grasp, the Eagles will view AFCON 2025 as an opportunity to restore pride and give millions of Nigerians something to celebrate.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, whose heroics were widely praised during the last edition, headlines the list of shot-stoppers and is joined by Francis Uzoho and Amas Obasogie. The defensive lineup includes familiar faces such as Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi, Chidozie Awaziem, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, while Igho Ogbu, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Ryan Alebiosu add depth and versatility to the backline.
In midfield, the technical crew will rely on the strength and intelligence of Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi, three players who have consistently performed at the highest level for club and country. They are joined by Raphael Onyedika, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Muhammed Usman, and Tochukwu Nnadi, forming a dynamic blend of ball-winners, creators, and box-to-box options.
The attack, traditionally Nigeria’s strongest department, boasts some of the continent’s finest forwards. Former African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen leads the charge, supported by the dangerous trio of immediate past African footballer of the year, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Moses Simon, all capable of unlocking even the tightest defences. Chidera Ejuke, Akor Adams, Cyriel Dessers, Paul Onuachu, and Salim Fago complete a potent frontline that offers pace, power, flair, and experience in equal measure.
With the recent retirement of former captain William Troost-Ekong—whose leadership and bravery were pivotal in previous campaigns—attention will now turn to the senior players expected to guide the team both on and off the pitch. The likes of Osimhen, Lookman, Simon, and Iwobi will be looked upon to provide direction, inspiration, and the calming presence needed in high-pressure moments.
Nigeria’s quest for a fourth AFCON title will begin in Group play later this January, and expectations are high. Fans across the country believe this squad possesses the quality, hunger, and depth required to conquer Africa in Morocco, especially after last year’s heartbreak and the disappointment of missing the World Cup.
For many supporters, winning the AFCON would serve as a powerful antidote to recent frustrations, a reminder of Nigeria’s footballing pedigree and a moment of collective joy after years of near misses. With a balanced squad and a strong desire for redemption, the Super Eagles will head to Morocco determined to write a new chapter in the nation’s football history.
