The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially released a 54-man preliminary squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), setting the stage for the final selection ahead of the tournament in Morocco.
The extensive list, announced today, showcases a blend of established stars, in-form talents, and emerging prospects vying for a place in the final squad.
Goalkeeping Department:
The goalkeeping unit presents a compelling mix of experience and current form.Stanley Nwabali, whose heroic performances were pivotal in Nigeria’s run to the 2023 AFCON final, retains his spot alongside Francis Uzoho and Adebayo Adeleye.
Notably, the list includes Maduka Okoye and promising talents Amas Obasogie and Ebenezer Harcourt, ensuring intense competition for the starting role.
Defensive Line:
Captain William Troost-Ekong,the 2023 AFCON Player of the Tournament, leads the defensive line. He is joined by regulars like Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Ola Aina. The selection also includes the likes of young defenders such as Ryan Alebiosu, Emmanuel Michael, and Adeleke Adekunle.
Midfielders:
The midfield engine room is built around Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi,whose experience will be crucial. They are supported by Frank Onyeka and Alhassan Yusuf. The list also reveals a keen eye on emerging talent, with invitations extended to the likes of Christantus Uche, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, and Peter Agba, offering Head Coach Eric Chelle a lot of options
Attackers:
African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen leads the line, supported by a formidable array of options including Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Kelechi Iheanacho. In-form European-based players like Nathan Tella, Cyriel Dessers, and Paul Onuachu
The sheer number and quality of forwards named will make the final cut particularly challenging.
This preliminary list serves as an open invitation for what is expected to be a highly competitive training camp.Coach Eric Chelle and his technical team will have the complex task of evaluating form, fitness, and tactical fit before submitting the final squad to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to be held in Morocco on 21st December 2025
