ABUJA — Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has unveiled Nigeria’s final 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, confirming a handful of high-profile omissions that have stirred debate across the Nigerian football community.
In a decision that surprised many fans and pundits, goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and forward Tolu Arokodare were left out of the squad despite featuring prominently in recent Super Eagles lineups and provisional selections. Also omitted were several other notable names, signaling a tactical shift by the Franco-Malian coach as he balances experience with fresh talent ahead of the continental showdown.
Nigeria’s AFCON campaign — set to begin on December 21, 2025 will see the three-time African champions compete in Group C, alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania. Chelle’s final cut includes a mix of seasoned internationals and emerging players in all positions as the team seeks to restore continental glory.
Among the changes, Francis Uzoho, the veteran goalkeeper earns a recall to the squad after strong club form, joining Stanley Nwabali of Chippa United and Amas Obasogie as Nigeria’s three goalkeepers. Chelle also bolstered defensive options with the inclusion of promising faces such as Ryan Alebiosu and Igoh Ogbu, while midfield and attack feature a blend of established stars and youthful prospects.
The exclusion of Okoye previously expected to challenge for the No. 1 jersey and Arokodare who has been a consistent presence in recent matches has sparked reactions among supporters, with debates centring on form, fitness and tactical fit. Nonetheless, Chelle appears determined to back his selection strategy as Nigeria prepares for a competitive group stage and beyond.
Super Eagles Final 28-Man AFCON Squad:
Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, Francis Uzoho
Defenders: Calvin Bassey, Oluwasemilogo 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
The team now turns its focus to final preparations and friendly fixtures ahead of the tournament opening, with hopes high that tactical cohesion, squad depth and a blend of experience and youth will carry the Super Eagles deep into AFCON competition.