Nigeria Super Eagles AFCON Squad 2025: Full Player List, Match Dates & Event Venue

Nigeria football fans are buzzing with excitement as the Super Eagles’ final squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has officially been announced. This year’s tournament — the 35th edition of Africa’s most prestigious football competition — promises to be a thrilling showcase of African talent, with Nigeria determined to go all the way. In this detailed breakdown, we cover the full squad, tournament dates, key matches, and the event location you need to know.

AFCON 2025 Overview: Dates & Venue

AFCON 2025 is scheduled to kick off on 21 December 2025 and run through to 18 January 2026, featuring some of Africa’s strongest national teams battling for continental glory. The tournament is being hosted in Morocco, offering state-of-the-art stadiums and passionate football atmospheres across multiple cities. The Super Eagles are drawn into Group C, where they will face Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda in the group stage. Nigeria’s campaign begins against Tanzania on 23 December, followed by matches against Tunisia on 27 December and Uganda on 30 December.

Super Eagles Final 28-Man Squad for AFCON 2025

Head coach Eric Sékou Chelle has named a 28-man squad that blends experienced veterans with exciting new talents. The list was confirmed in early December and showcases Nigeria’s strength in every department — from solid goalkeepers to lethal attackers.

Goalkeepers

• • Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)

• • Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania)

• • Francis Uzoho (Omonia FC, Cyprus) These three shot-stoppers will compete for clean sheets and command of the penalty area.

Defenders

• • Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England)

• • Semi Ajayi (Hull City, England)

• • Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England)

• • Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece)

• • Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes FC, France)

• • Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Portugal)

• • Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague, Czech Republic)

• • Ryan Alebiosu (Blackburn Rovers, England) Nigeria’s backline blends pace, physicality, and European experience — crucial for keeping some of Africa’s top strikers at bay.

Midfielders

• • Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas, Turkey)

• • Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England)

• • Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio, Italy)

• • Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium)

• • Tochukwu Nnadi (Zulte Waregem, Belgium)

• • Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (Pisa, Italy)

• • Usman Muhammed (Ironi Tiberias, Israel)

• • Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England) This midfield mix offers defensive cover, creative flair, and box-to-box energy — a real plus in the intense pace of AFCON football.

Forwards

• • Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey) – Captain & star striker

• • Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy)

• • Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham, England)

• • Moses Simon (Paris FC, France)

• • Akor Adams (Sevilla, Spain)

• • Paul Onuachu (Trabzonspor, Turkey)

• • Cyriel Dessers (Panathinaikos, Greece)

• • Salim Fago Lawal (Istra 1961, Croatia) Nine high-quality forwards headline Nigeria’s attack, led by Victor Osimhen — one of Africa’s deadliest goal threats. Expect Nigeria to be formidable in the final third.

Key Dates & Matches

Here’s a snapshot of Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 journey — from build-up games to group clashes: Friendly Match (Pre-AFCON):

• • 16 December 2025 vs Egypt at Cairo International Stadium — a final tune-up before the tournament.

Group Stage Matches:

• • 23 December 2025: vs Tanzania

• • 27 December 2025: vs Tunisia

• • 30 December 2025: vs Uganda These fixtures will be critical in determining whether the Super Eagles qualify for the knockout stages.

Why This AFCON Matters to Nigeria

Nigeria enters AFCON 2025 with high expectations. After finishing as runners-up in the previous tournament, the Super Eagles are eager to claim a fourth continental title — a feat that would solidify their status among Africa’s football elite. Their squad boasts a mix of seasoned campaigners and hungry young talent ready to make their mark. Moreover, this AFCON serves as a platform for showcasing Nigerian footballers on the global stage, with many players already starring in top European leagues. For local fans and diaspora supporters alike, the tournament is a celebration of national pride and talent.

Final Thoughts

The Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 squad represents a compelling blend of experience, depth, and tactical versatility. From the commanding presence of Victor Osimhen in attack to Wilfred Ndidi’s midfield engine and a strong defensive line, Nigeria is well-equipped to challenge for glory in Morocco. With the tournament underway from 21 December 2025, football lovers should brace for an exhilarating AFCON journey.