By Wellington Jopelo
Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, on Thursday unveiled Nigeria’s final squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to kick off in Morocco on December 21.
The announcement has triggered widespread reactions, particularly over the inclusion of first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. Questions had been raised about his fitness following reports that the Chippa United shot-stopper was nursing ankle and hand injuries and had missed recent club matches in South Africa.
Despite the concerns, Chelle retained faith in the 29-year-old and included him in the squad alongside Francis Uzoho and Amas Obasogie. The decision has drawn attention, especially with the exclusion of Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, a move that surprised many fans.
Nwabali, who played a key role in Nigeria’s run to the final of the last AFCON, has faced criticism in recent months. However, his importance was evident during the Super Eagles’ defeat to DR Congo in November, where his saves forced the match into penalties and kept Nigeria in contention.
Okoye, who recently returned to regular action with Udinese after a suspension, has impressed in Serie A, recording clean sheets and a penalty save. His omission has fueled debate among supporters who believe he posed strong competition for the number-one shirt.
Beyond the goalkeeping choices, the squad reflects a mix of experience and fresh talent. Senior players such as Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi are expected to provide leadership, while a number of younger players have been handed opportunities to prove themselves on a big stage.
Chelle has named several players set to make their AFCON debut, with some yet to feature for the senior national team. The decision signals a shift towards rebuilding and injecting energy into the squad after Nigeria’s failure to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
The team will also have to cope with notable absences, including Ola Aina and Benjamin Fredricks, as well as the retirement of former captain William Troost-Ekong.
Preparation plans have been affected by a new FIFA directive delaying the release of players from European clubs until December 15. As a result, Nigeria’s training camp will open later than planned, and a pre-tournament friendly against Egypt has been rescheduled.
With limited preparation time, new faces in key areas, and growing pressure to deliver a fourth AFCON title, the Super Eagles head into the tournament facing both expectation and uncertainty.