As excitement continues to build ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has released a broad, highly competitive provisional squad that reflects both Nigeria’s depth and its determination to reclaim continental glory.
The newly unveiled list features an impressive mix of established stars, returning national-team regulars, and promising fresh faces. All players named will now compete intensely for inclusion in the final 28-man squad that will represent Nigeria at Africa’s biggest football tournament. Chelle’s announcement officially signals the start of Nigeria’s final preparatory phase, where performance, fitness, and tactical suitability will determine who makes the ultimate cut.
Goalkeepers: Familiar Strength Meets New Competition
In the goalkeeping department, Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye headline the selections. Both players have enjoyed strong club campaigns, giving Chelle reliable and in-form options between the posts. They are joined by additional keepers hoping to seize their opportunity in camp, with each determined to prove they deserve a place on the final roster. The competition promises to be fierce, especially with Chelle emphasizing consistency and command in goal.
Defenders: Leadership, Experience, and Fresh Options
The defensive lineup carries a strong sense of continuity. Captain William Troost-Ekong remains the pillar of the backline, offering leadership, experience, and composure. He is supported by trusted names like Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi, and Ola Aina, all of whom bring reliability and international experience. Chelle has also called up several emerging defenders from European leagues and the NPFL, injecting competition and giving him tactical flexibility for different match scenarios.
Midfielders: Creativity, Grit, and Tactical Balance
Nigeria’s midfield once again showcases its enviable depth. The group blends creativity, defensive discipline, and versatility. Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, and Raphael Onyedika headline the department, offering a balanced spread across defensive midfield duties, ball progression, and attacking transitions. Chelle has also rewarded a number of rising talents who have impressed at club level, giving the Super Eagles more options to dictate play, adjust tempo, and respond to tactical demands throughout the tournament.
Forwards: A Fearsome Attack Led by Osimhen
Nigeria’s attacking firepower remains one of the team’s greatest weapons. Victor Osimhen, widely regarded as one of the world’s most lethal strikers, leads the frontline. He is joined by a star-studded supporting cast including Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, and other dynamic forwards. Their combination of speed, creativity, and clinical finishing makes the Super Eagles one of the most dangerous attacking sides heading into AFCON 2025. Opponents will have much to worry about as Nigeria fields a frontline capable of breaking down any defense.
Chelle’s provisional list not only highlights Nigeria’s immense talent pool but also signals a renewed focus on competition, tactical flexibility, and squad cohesion. With the final selection looming, all eyes will now turn to the Super Eagles’ training camp as players battle for their place in Morocco — and for a chance to bring AFCON glory back to Nigeria.