The Nigeria Football Federation NFF has announced a 23-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda. The roster features a balanced mix of seasoned players and rising talents as Nigeria aims to secure a spot in the tournament.
The goalkeepers include Stanley Nwabali, who was outstanding in AFCON 2023, alongside Maduka Okoye and Bendel Insurance’s Amas Obasogie, marking Obasogie’s return to the national team.
Defensive selections include South Africa-based Olisa Ndah, returning captain William Troost Ekong, Bright Osayi Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Olaoluwa Aina, providing a solid backline for the Super Eagles.
In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi leads the lineup, supported by Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika, and Fisayo Dele Bashiru. The forward line is led by reigning African Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen, with Samuel Chukwueze, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Taiwo Awoniyi also included.
The Bet9ja promotion code for October 2024 is YOHAIG. This Bet9ja promo code gives a welcome bonus of up to ₦100,000 on your first deposit. The minimum deposit to bet is ₦100! USE the Bet9ja login signup to get started today.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Super Eagles will face the Benin Republic on September 7 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo before flying to Kigali to meet Rwanda on September 10. Players are expected to report to camp by September 2.
Editorial
The NFF’s announcement of the Super Eagles squad for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers reflects a blend of stability and ambition. The selection of veteran players like Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Alex Iwobi ensures that Nigeria will have the experience needed for high stakes matches, while the inclusion of younger talents like Amas Obasogie and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru signals the team’s intent to build for the future.
This balanced approach is essential for Nigeria’s success in these critical qualifying matches. Facing opponents like Benin and Rwanda may seem manageable, but AFCON qualifiers are rarely predictable. The return of players like Taiwo Awoniyi adds a fresh dimension to the team, particularly in attack, where Nigeria will need clinical finishing to secure the points needed to progress.
The leadership of coach José Peseiro will be crucial in navigating these qualifiers. The Super Eagles have long been a dominant force in African football, but consistency in these early stages is key. Fans will be eager to see how Peseiro’s tactics evolve with the mix of veteran and young players, particularly as the team faces the challenge of qualifying for AFCON 2025.
As the Super Eagles prepare for these crucial matches, the squad’s depth and balance give fans hope for another successful qualification campaign. The blend of experience and youth in the team is the right formula for Nigeria’s long-term success on the continental stage.
Did You Know?
- Victor Osimhen was named African Player of the Year in 2023 and has become one of the most sought after strikers in world football.
- William Troost Ekong, the team captain, plays his club football in Saudi Arabia for Al Kholood FC.
- Nigeria has won the Africa Cup of Nations three times, with their most recent victory in 2013.
- Taiwo Awoniyi returns to the Super Eagles squad after missing out on international duty since Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Lesotho in November 2023.
- The Super Eagles will play their home match against Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, one of the premier football venues in Nigeria.
