Phto by Jonathan Shembere via Pexels
Nigeria has dropped one of the most talent-packed preliminary lists of AFCON 2025, with the Super Eagles naming 55 players as they begin final preparations for the tournament hosted in Morocco from December 21 to January 18.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the list, the largest provisional call-up in the team’s AFCON history, featuring established Europe-based stars, domestic prospects, and several surprise inclusions battling for a spot in the final 27-man squad.
This broad selection reflects the intention of coach Finidi George’s replacement to create maximum competition following Nigeria’s mixed performances throughout 2024–2025.
Goalkeepers: A Deep, Competitive Group
Nigeria’s goalkeeping department remains stacked with experience and fresh talent:
- Maduka Okoye — returning after a strong season in Italy
- Stanley Nwabali — AFCON 2023 star
- Francis Uzoho, Amas Obasogie, Adebayo Adeleye
- Newcomer Ebenezer Harcourt
The battle for the No.1 shirt will be one of the most closely watched storylines of camp.
Defence: Leadership Meets New Blood
The defensive list balances proven veterans with players pushing for breakthroughs:
- William Troost-Ekong, Nigeria’s AFCON 2023 captain
- Zaidu Sanusi, Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel
- Chidozie Awaziem, Ajayi Oluwasemilogo
- Young options like Ryan Alebiosu, Emmanuel Michael, Adeleke Adekunle
With Morocco’s fast-paced tournament conditions, versatility and athleticism were clearly prioritised.
Midfield: Strongest Unit on Paper
Nigeria’s midfield appears more complete than in recent years:
- Wilfred Ndidi, fully recovered and in strong club form
- Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf, Alex Iwobi
- Dual Dele-Bashiru brothers: Fisayo and Tom
- Rising talents: Raphael Onyedika, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Tochukwu Nnadi
This is a midfield built for intensity — pressing, transitions and long-distance control.
Forward: One of the Most Dangerous in Africa
Nigeria’s preliminary forward list is nothing short of elite:
- Victor Osimhen
- Ademola Lookman
- Samuel Chukwueze
- Moses Simon
- Nathan Tella
- Taiwo Awoniyi
- Victor Boniface
- Terem Moffi
- Paul Onuachu
- Kelechi Iheanacho
- Sadiq Umar
Alongside them are emerging attackers such as Adams Akor, Philip Otele, Rafiu Durosinmi, Ikwuemesi Chukwubuikem, Ekeson Okorie, and Chisom Orji, all competing for limited slots.
On paper, this is one of the most stacked offensive units heading into AFCON 2025.
What This Means for Nigeria Ahead of AFCON Morocco 2025
- A massive preliminary list signals a reset following recent inconsistency.
- Competition will be fierce — especially in attack and midfield.
- Nigeria aims to return to the top after finishing runners-up at AFCON 2023.
- With Morocco hosting a high-level tournament, squad depth may be decisive.
The final 27-man squad will be announced after the Abuja training camp — and based on the talent available, Nigeria could arrive in Morocco as one of the tournament’s true contenders.
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