Super Eagles Announce Final 28-Man AFCON Squad As Uzoho Makes Shock Return And Okoye Gets Dropped

Maduka Okoye reacting during a Super Eagles training session

The goalkeeping battle for AFCON 2025 has taken a dramatic turn, and the dust has finally settled — Maduka Okoye has been brutally cut, clearing the path for Francis Uzoho’s unexpected return to the Super Eagles squad.

Head coach Eric Sékou Chelle has unveiled Nigeria’s final 28-man squad for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, and it’s a strong blend of established stars, in-form returnees, and exciting new faces. With just 10 days to the opening game, Nigeria is gearing up for a serious push for continental glory.

The core of the team

In goal, Stanley Nwabali retains his spot as the nation’s safest hands, backed by Amas Obasogie and the returning Francis Uzoho, whose inclusion ahead of Okoye is already sparking heated discussions.

The defence features familiar anchors like Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, alongside trusted options such as Chidozie Awaziem and Bruno Onyemaechi. New energy comes from Ryan Alebiosu, the England-born fullback earning his first AFCON call-up.

Midfield power and balance

The midfield is a mix of strength, creativity, and young promise — Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru headline the group. Rising talents like Tochukwu Nnadi, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, and Usman Muhammed add depth and technical flair.

Firepower up front

Nigeria’s attack remains one of the most feared on the continent. Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman lead the charge, supported by wingers Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, and Chidera Ejuke. The striking department is further bolstered by Paul Onuachu, Cyriel Dessers, Akor Adams, and new call-up Salim Fago Lawal.

Final warm-up before AFCON

The Super Eagles will face the Pharaohs of Egypt in a crucial friendly at Cairo Stadium on Tuesday, December 16, before flying out to Fès, their AFCON base city.

Nigeria’s Group C fixtures are as follows:

December 23: vs Tanzania (Taifa Stars)
December 27: vs Tunisia (Carthage Eagles)
December 30: vs Uganda (Cranes)

Full 28-Man AFCON 2025 Squad

Goalkeepers:
Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, Francis Uzoho

Defenders:
Calvin Bassey, Semi 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