Super Eagles
By Bolatito Abayomi
The Nigeria Football Federation has released a 54‑man provisional squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, and among the names that stand out are the return of veteran defenders and forwards who have been absent from recent call‑ups. Coach Eric Chelle’s list aims to blend experience with the youthful energy that has defined the team’s recent performances, giving the Super Eagles a broad pool to choose from as they prepare for the tournament in Morocco.
Goalkeepers feature a mix of domestic talent and players based overseas. Between the posts the federation has called on Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, Maduka Okoya, Adebayo Adeleye, Francis Uzoho and Ebenezer Harcourt, offering depth and a range of playing styles from the African leagues to European clubs.
The defensive line reads like a roll‑call of Nigeria’s most reliable backs. Ola Aina, William Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Bright Osayi‑Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Chidozie Awaziem, Zaidu Sanusi, Igoh Ogbu, Felix Agu and Ryan Alebiosu are all expected to provide solidity and leadership at the back, with Aina’s return adding a familiar presence on the right flank.
Midfield is populated by a host of creative and combative players. Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf, Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, Christantus Uche, Tochukwu Nnadi, Fisayo Dele‑Bashiru, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Usman Muhammed and Peter Agba have all earned their spots through recent form, giving the team options for both ball retention and quick transitions.
The attack boasts a lethal mix of pace, power and poise. Names such as Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen, Simon Moses, Chidera Ejuke, Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams, Olakunle Olusegun, Sadiq Umar, Kelechi Iheanacho, Taiwo Awoniyi, Victor Boniface, Paul Onuachu, Terem Moffi, Nathan Tella, Cyriel Dessers, Abdulrasheed Shehu, Rafiu Durosinmi, Ekeson Okorie and Chisom Orji highlight the depth of talent available to the coach.
Overall, the squad reflects a strategic approach that balances seasoned campaigners with emerging stars, giving Nigeria a versatile lineup as they eye a strong showing at the 2025 AFCON. The next few weeks will see the list trimmed down to the final 23, and fans will be watching closely to see which players earn the nod for the continental challenge.
