After missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup, AFCON 2025 is Nigeria’s shot at redemption.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles head into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco with a trimmed 28-man squad led by Victor Osimhen and Wilfred Ndidi. After the disappointment of failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, AFCON represents both a redemption opportunity and a test of resilience. The squad blends experienced stars with fresh faces, but injuries and notable omissions raise questions about their chances of reclaiming continental glory.

Nigeria’s Final AFCON 2025 Squad

Head coach Eric Chelle has finalized his list of 28 players:

• Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Francis Uzoho, Amas Obasogie
  
  

• Defenders: Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Chidozie Awaziem, Zaidu Sanusi, Igoh Ogbu, Ryan Alebiosu
  
  

• Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro
  
  

• Forwards: Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Paul Onuachu, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Gift Orban, among others
  
  

Notable absences:

• Former captain William Troost-Ekong (retired from international football).
  
  

• Kelechi Iheanacho and Maduka Okoye (dropped despite recent club form).
  
  

• Rising star Benjamin Fredrick (ruled out by injury).
  
  

Nigeria’s Chances in Morocco

After missing out on the 2026 World Cup, AFCON is seen as a chance to restore pride and confidence.

• Strengths:

  • Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman headline a potent attack.

  • Midfield stability from Ndidi and Onyedika.

  • Defensive depth with Bassey and Ajayi.
    
    

• Concerns:

  • Goalkeeping uncertainty, with Nwabali battling injuries.

  • Loss of leadership following Troost-Ekong’s retirement.

  • Inconsistency in recent performances and morale issues.
    
    

• Group Stage Fixtures:
  Nigeria opens against Tanzania (Dec 23),
  then faces Tunisia (Dec 27) and
  Uganda (Dec 30).

Context & Expectations

Nigeria has won AFCON three times (1980, 1994, 2013). The team enters Morocco under pressure to prove they remain a continental powerhouse. Former captain Mikel Obi has publicly backed the squad, urging them to “bring it home”. Analysts believe the Super Eagles are dark horses: capable of going deep if their stars deliver, but vulnerable if injuries and morale issues persist.

The 2025 AFCON is more than just another tournament for Nigeria — it’s a litmus test of resilience after the heartbreak of missing the World Cup. With Osimhen leading the charge, the Super Eagles have the firepower to challenge for a fourth continental crown, but success will depend on overcoming internal weaknesses and seizing momentum early in Morocco.