Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is facing a major selection headache as he prepares to finalize Nigeria's squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Malian gaffer has unveiled a massive 54-man provisional list, setting the stage for intense competition before the final 28-man roster is submitted.
Provisional Squad Reveals Depth and Strategy
The extensive provisional list, released ahead of the December 11 deadline set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), showcases Nigeria's impressive talent pool. The squad is a blend of established stars and promising newcomers, covering all positions comprehensively.
Six goalkeepers, including Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye, and Francis Uzoho, are vying for spots. The defense features 13 players, midfield has 12 options, and a striking 23 forwards are in contention, highlighting the attacking wealth at Chelle's disposal.
Veteran campaigners like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Semi Ajayi anchor the list. Their experience is expected to be crucial as Nigeria seeks a fourth continental title from a competitive Group C that includes Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Three Rising Stars Tipped for Breakthrough
While trimming the list from 54 to 28 is a daunting task, football insiders have identified three new faces with a strong chance of making the final cut for the tournament in Morocco.
Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, the Inter Milan midfielder currently on loan at Serie A's Pisa, is a leading candidate. His performances have drawn praise from Pisa manager Alberto Gilardino, with his work rate, strength in duels, and clean passing catching Coach Chelle's eye this season.
Ryan Alebiosu earns his first national team call-up after recently being cleared to represent Nigeria. The Blackburn Rovers defender has been a model of consistency in the English Championship, making 18 appearances and offering reliable defensive options for the Super Eagles.
Completing the trio is Emmanuel Micheal, the Linzer Athletik SK midfielder from Austria, who also receives his maiden invitation. His inclusion signals Chelle's intent to inject fresh energy and provide young talents with exposure on the continental stage.
The Final Countdown to Morocco
Coach Eric Chelle's immediate challenge is to evaluate this large pool of talent and select a balanced squad that combines experience with youthful vigor. The inclusion of these emerging players like Akinsanmiro, Alebiosu, and Micheal adds significant depth and tactical versatility to the team's core.
In related preparations, Chelle has also looked to bolster his attacking options, with reports indicating an invite has been sent to Viktoria Plzen striker Rafiu Durosinmi as a potential backup for star forward Victor Osimhen.
All eyes are now on the Super Eagles' camp as the December 11 deadline approaches. The final 28-man squad will carry the hopes of a nation eager to reclaim African football's ultimate prize in Morocco next year.
