The Nigerian national football team has named a 23-man squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda. Among the notable returnees are William Troost-Ekong, Olaoluwa Aina, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Victor Osimhen.
Troost-Ekong, who recently signed with Al-Kholood FC in Saudi Arabia, is back in the squad for the first time since the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast. Awoniyi, sidelined by injury since November last year, returns to strengthen the attack. Osimhen, amid uncertainty at Napoli, is also set to feature.
The squad includes three goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders, and seven forwards. Notable names in goal are AFCON 2023 standout Stanley Nwabali and Udinese’s Maduka Okoye. Defenders joining Troost-Ekong include Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, and Olisah Ndah of Orlando Pirates.
In midfield, Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi and Raphael Onyedika are joined by Lazio’s Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Everton’s Alex Iwobi. The attack will be led by Osimhen, Awoniyi, AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze, and Sevilla’s Kelechi Iheanacho.
All players are expected to report to camp in Uyo on September 2, ahead of the first match on September 7 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
With a mix of experience and fresh talent, Nigeria is poised to make a strong push in their AFCON 2025 qualifying campaign.
