Experienced internationals, rising stars, and debutants compete for Morocco 2025 spots.

Eric Chelle

The Nigeria Super Eagles are gearing up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, with head coach Eric Chelle set to reduce his 54-man provisional squad to a final 28-man roster ahead of the tournament opener on December 21.

The final squad will blend experienced internationals, returning players, and debutants, each vying for a place. Preparations have already been affected by the absence of Benjamin Fredrick (injury) and the international retirement of captain William Troost-Ekong, forcing Chelle to address key positions while maintaining balance.

CAF regulations allow 24–28 players, with four optional inclusions, intensifying competition for maiden call-ups and returning players. Only those demonstrating fitness, consistency, and tactical readiness are likely to make the final cut.

Key Players in Contention

Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest, England) – The 48-cap full-back missed over 100 days due to a hamstring injury but remains in Chelle’s plans. Known for pace, defensive intelligence, and attacking support, Aina brings experience and tactical flexibility.

Paul Onuachu (Trabzonspor, Turkey) – The 30-year-old striker leads Nigerian players in Europe with 11 goals this season. His aerial dominance, scoring consistency, and hold-up play make him a key attacking option, complementing Victor Osimhen.

Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (Pisa, Italy) – The 20-year-old midfielder has impressed on loan from Inter Milan, demonstrating energy, composure, and creativity, with notable performances against Fiorentina and AC Milan.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio, Italy) – The 24-year-old midfielder offers possession control, passing efficiency, and tactical depth following recovery from a hamstring injury.

Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany) – Recently returning from a knee bruise, Tella provides width, transitional play, and attacking creativity, contributing key passes and dribbles per game.

Ryan Alebiosu (Blackburn Rovers, England) – The 23-year-old right-back, uncapped for Nigeria, combines defensive solidity with attacking support, averaging 85 minutes per game this season.

Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague, Czech Republic) – A reliable centre-back option, Ogbu brings aerial dominance, duels won, and ball-playing ability, strengthening defensive depth in the absence of Troost-Ekong and Fredrick.

The coming days will test the players’ quality, fitness, and tactical awareness, as Chelle shapes a squad capable of challenging in one of AFCON 2025’s most competitive groups.