Nigeria’s new head coach, Eric Chelle, has officially announced a 54-man provisional squad as the Super Eagles begin early preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. The announcement marks the beginning of what the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) describes as a “renewed era of rebuilding,” following the country’s painful failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Chelle, who previously coached Mali, has been tasked with restoring confidence, strengthening the team’s identity, and guiding Nigeria to continental glory after narrowly missing out on the AFCON title last year. The Super Eagles finished as runners-up in the 2024 edition, losing to Ivory Coast in a dramatic final. The disappointment that followed has placed renewed pressure on the team to deliver success in Morocco.
In his quest to rebuild a competitive and resilient squad, Chelle has named a large pool of 54 players, consisting of established stars, returning veterans, and several exciting new prospects. The squad will later be pruned down to a final tournament list of between 26 and 28 players in accordance with CAF regulations.
According to the NFF, the expanded list is designed to give the coach and technical team a wide range of options to assess performance, fitness levels, consistency, and tactical suitability. It also allows Chelle the opportunity to evaluate fringe players and identify hidden talents who may bring depth and versatility to the squad.
Among the standout names on the provisional list are Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, Fulham winger Samuel Chukwueze, and captain William Troost-Ekong, who has been instrumental in maintaining leadership stability within the team. Their inclusion comes as no surprise, given their influence and contribution in recent years.
However, the biggest talking point from the list is the call-up of 16-year-old goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt—a selection that has sparked excitement and debate among Nigerian football supporters. Harcourt’s impressive performances at youth level have earned him a reputation as one of the country’s brightest emerging talents, and his invitation signals the coach’s intention to build for both present and future.
The provisional squad features 6 goalkeepers, 13 defenders, 12 midfielders, and an unusually large contingent of 23 forwards, reflecting Chelle’s determination to sharpen Nigeria’s attacking options. The Super Eagles have long been known for producing top-tier attacking talent, and the 2025 AFCON preparations seem to be continuing that tradition.
Nigeria has been placed in Group C for the upcoming tournament, where they will face Tanzania, Uganda, and Tunisia. On paper, the group appears balanced, but football analysts note that AFCON has become increasingly competitive, with no room for complacency—particularly given Nigeria’s recent inconsistencies. The team last won the title in 2013, and the nation’s expectation for another triumph grows with each passing tournament.
Chelle has emphasised that his selection philosophy is based on merit, discipline, and the need to build a cohesive team dynamic. He has also stressed that places in the final squad are not guaranteed, and all invited players must prove themselves during the pre-tournament training camp. With Nigeria aiming to go a step further than last year’s silver-medal finish, competition for spots is expected to be intense.
The expanded list includes familiar midfield generals such as Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi, who bring balance, experience, and creativity. In attack, fans will be excited to see a formidable line-up that includes Taiwo Awoniyi, Kelechi Iheanacho, Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, and Terem Moffi—players who have consistently performed in Europe.
The selection also welcomes back some long-time absentees and introduces several fresh faces from both local and foreign leagues. This blend of youth and experience aligns with Chelle’s project of building depth while maintaining Nigeria’s competitive edge.
Below is the full 54-man provisional squad released by Eric Chelle:
Goalkeepers
Maduka Okoye, Amas Obasogie, Francis Uzoho, Ebenezer Harcourt, Stanley Nwabali, Adebayo Adeleye
Defenders
Felix Agu, Zaidu Sanusi, William Troost-Ekong, Ajayi Oluwasemilogo, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Chidozie Awaziem, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Igoh Ogbu, Ryan Alebiosu, Adeleke Adenkunle, Emmanuel Michael
Midfielders
Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf, Alex Iwobi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Raphael Onyedika, Christantus Uche, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Tochukwu Nnadi, Usman Muhammed, Peter Agba, Tom Dele-Bashiru
Attackers
Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, Tolu Arokodare, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Adams Akor, Chidera Ejuke, Olakunle Olusegun, Sadiq Umar, Kelechi Iheanacho, Taiwo Awoniyi, Victor Boniface, Paul Onuachu, Terem Moffi, Nathan Tella, Cyriel Dessers, Abdulrraheed Shehu, Rafiu Durosinmi, Ekeson Okorie, Chisom Orji, Philip Otele, Ikwuemesi Chukwubuikem, Salim Fago
As preparations intensify, Nigeria’s football community waits eagerly to see how Eric Chelle will shape the final squad. Expectations are high, but so is the belief that with proper planning, strong leadership, and tactical precision, the Super Eagles can return to the top of African football.
AfricaLiveNews will continue to monitor Nigeria’s preparation activities, provide updates from the training camp, and offer expert analysis as AFCON 2025 draws closer.
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