Omonia goalkeeper Francis Uzoho and Trabzonspor striker Paul Onuachu have been recalled to the Nigeria national team, while Maduka Okoye and Tolu Arokodare miss out on the final 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle announced the squad for the tournament, scheduled from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, in Morocco. The selection comprises three goalkeepers, eight defenders, eight midfielders, and nine forwards.
Several new faces strengthen the squad across all positions. In defence, Blackburn Rovers’ Ryan Alebiosu receives his first call-up, while Slavia Prague’s Igoh Ogbu joins as a central defensive reinforcement.
The midfield has also been bolstered with Inter Milan youngster Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Remo Stars Academy graduate Usman Muhammed, and former Flying Eagles star Tochukwu Nnadi.
Up front, Croatia-based striker Lawal Salim Fago earns his first invitation, adding depth to Nigeria’s attacking options.
Uzoho returns to the goalkeeping unit after last featuring in March 2024. He will partner Chippa United’s Stanley Nwabali—whose availability remains uncertain due to fitness concerns—while Singida Black Stars’ Amas Obasogie completes the trio.
In defence, Calvin Bassey of Fulham prepares for his second AFCON campaign alongside established names including Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Chidozie Awaziem, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Porto full-back Zaidu Sanusi.
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The midfield core features Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Raphael Onyedika, providing experience and stability.
Leading the attack, Victor Osimhen will be supported by Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, and Sevilla duo Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke. Panathinaikos striker Cyriel Dessers retains his place, while Onuachu earns his first call-up under Chelle following impressive form in Turkey.
Nigeria has been drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda. As part of pre-tournament preparations, the team will camp in Egypt and face the Pharaohs in an unofficial friendly on December 16.
The Super Eagles open their AFCON campaign against Tanzania on December 23 at the Complexe Sportif de Fès in Fès. Tunisia and Uganda will clash simultaneously at Stade Annexe of Prince Moulay in Rabat.
The group stage highlights include Nigeria’s showdown with Tunisia on December 27 in Fès, while Uganda and Tanzania face off in Rabat. Group C concludes on December 31, with Nigeria taking on Uganda and Tunisia meeting Tanzania.
Nigeria, runners-up at the last AFCON following a 2–1 defeat to hosts Ivory Coast, will be chasing a fourth continental crown, having previously lifted the trophy in 1980, 1994, and 2013.
