Former Flying Eagles Star Among Five New Faces In Nigeria’s Squad For AFCON 2025

A new chapter has opened for Tochukwu Nnadi as the former Flying Eagles midfielder earns his first-ever call-up to the Super Eagles, marking a major milestone in his young career. The 22-year-old Zulte Waregem star is one of five new faces included in Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Nnadi’s invitation comes on the back of a string of standout performances in the Belgian Pro League, where he has steadily grown into a key midfield presence for his club. His rise has not gone unnoticed, and national team selectors have now handed him the opportunity many young Nigerian footballers only dream of.

Speaking to the Super Eagles media team, Nnadi could not hide his excitement, describing the moment as surreal for both himself and his family.

“I was happy, and my family was happy as well. It’s a dream come true. Since I was young, I’ve been dreaming of playing for the national team,” he said.

The midfielder reflected on his journey through the ranks, from representing Nigeria at U-20 level to now stepping onto the senior international stage sooner than he expected.

“I played for the U-20s, and now I’m in the Super Eagles. I wasn’t expecting it to be so soon, but now I’m here, and I’m happy,” Nnadi added.

Beyond the excitement, the former Flying Eagles star is fully aware of the pressure and responsibility that comes with wearing the green and white jersey. Representing a football-loving nation of over 200 million people is no small task, and Nnadi embraces the challenge head-on.

“I know being in the national team comes with a lot of pressure. I come from a country with over 200 million people. Playing for them, I know it’s a heavy responsibility, but I’m here to show my quality, fight for the team, and I hope we win the AFCON,” he said.

Nnadi’s inclusion signals a clear intent to refresh the Super Eagles squad ahead of AFCON 2025, blending youth, hunger and proven experience. For fans, it is another reminder that Nigeria’s talent pipeline remains strong, with the next generation ready to step up when called.

As the countdown to AFCON continues, all eyes will be on how these new faces adapt to the demands of tournament football—and whether players like Nnadi can turn personal dreams into national glory.

“I never expected it to be this soon.”

Tochukwu Nnadi on finding out he made the Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 squad.#Naija4TheWin #LetsDoItAgain pic.twitter.com/Nd79VVw2ME

— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) December 16, 2025