FULL LIST: Some Big Names Missing as Chelle Unveils Final AFCON Squad

Nigeria’s build-up to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations intensified on Thursday as head coach Eric Chelle unveiled his final 28-man squad, a list that mixes familiar faces with returning players and first-time selections while leaving out several headline names. With the tournament kicking off in Morocco in ten days, the announcement signals the final phase of preparations for a team aiming to capture a fourth continental crown.

Chelle stuck with key performers from recent campaigns, including goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and defenders Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and Zaidu Sanusi. Midfield anchors Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka made the cut, as did forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. The coach has also kept faith with Chidozie Awaziem, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Raphael Onyedika, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon, forming the backbone of a squad expected to compete deep into the tournament.

There are notable returns for Francis Uzoho, Igoh Ogbu and Paul Onuachu, while four players are set for their first major senior tournament. Ryan Alebiosu joins the defensive ranks, with Usman Muhammed, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro and Tochukwu Nnadi reinforcing the midfield, and Salim Fago Lawal adding a new option in attack.

The final selection, however, comes with big omissions. Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, enjoying strong form in Italy, did not make the trio. None of the Nigeria Premier Football League hopefuls — including promising talents Ebenezer Harcourt, Abdulrasheed Shehu, Ekeson Okorie and Chisom Orji — survived the last cut. In attack, Kelechi Iheanacho, Taiwo Awoniyi, Victor Boniface and Tolu Arokodare were all left out. Team officials explained that decisions were based on form, fitness and the need for tactical balance.

Nigeria will play Egypt in Cairo on 16 December in a modified friendly allowing expanded substitutions, following adjustments to FIFA’s release-date rules. The team heads to Fès on 18 December, where all Group C fixtures will take place. The Super Eagles open their campaign on 23 December against Tanzania, before meeting Tunisia on 27 December and wrapping up the group stage against Uganda on 30 December. Analysts expect a tightly contested group, with all four sides considered capable of pushing for qualification.

Nigeria’s final 28-man squad

Goalkeepers:

Stanley Nwabali; Amas Obasogie; Francis Uzoho

Defenders:

Calvin Bassey; Semi Ajayi; Bright Osayi-Samuel; Bruno Onyemaechi; Chidozie Awaziem; Zaidu Sanusi; Igoh Ogbu; Ryan Alebiosu

Midfielders:

Alex Iwobi; Frank Onyeka; Wilfred Ndidi; Raphael Onyedika; Tochukwu Nnadi; Fisayo Dele-Bashiru; Ebenezer Akinsanmiro; Usman Muhammed

Forwards:

Ademola Lookman; Samuel Chukwueze; Victor Osimhen; Moses Simon; Chidera Ejuke; Akor Adams; Paul Onuachu; Cyriel Dessers; Salim Fago Lawal