Controversy Surrounds Super Eagles’ AFCON Squad Selection: Musa’s Inclusion, Six Players’ Absence Spark Debate

Nigeria’s Super Eagles head coach, Jose Peseiro, recently revealed the final 25-man squad for the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast. However, the selection has sparked controversy and raised eyebrows among Nigerian football enthusiasts.

Ahmed Musa’s inclusion in the squad has been met with skepticism on social media, with some questioning the decision, especially considering his limited playing time in recent months. Additionally, concerns were raised about the absence of six players – Kelechi Nwakali, Olisa Ndah, Terem Moffi, Gift Orban, Nathan Tella, and Cyriel Dessers.

Criticism has also been directed at the midfield composition, with opinions suggesting a lack of creativity in the lineup despite the presence of notable players like Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Joe Aribo, and Frank Onyeka.

Valentine Nwabili from Chippa United is the only new face in the squad, while Captain Ahmed Musa and his assistant, William Troost-Ekong, were named in the roster.

Preparations for the tournament are set to commence in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, starting January 1. The Super Eagles find themselves in Group A alongside hosts Cote d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau, with their first match scheduled against Equatorial Guinea on January 14.

Social media reactions to the squad were mixed, with fans expressing disappointment over certain omissions and raising concerns about the team’s overall balance. The debate ranges from the perceived imbalance in positions, like having only five midfielders, to the inclusion of players with limited recent playing time.

The AFCON journey for Nigeria’s Super Eagles is set to unfold, and fans are gearing up for an eventful tournament with expectations and concerns echoing through online discussions.