Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has reportedly initiated a significant shake-up in his attacking options ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, with a young striker poised for a potential breakthrough call-up.
New Striking Option Emerges for Super Eagles
According to reports from ScoreNigeria, Chelle has extended an invitation to 22-year-old forward Rafiu Durosinmi, who currently plays for Czech Republic side Viktoria Plzen. This move is seen as a direct response to the need for a reliable deputy to star striker Victor Osimhen, following inconsistent performances from other established options like Tolu Arokodare, Paul Onuachu, and Cyriel Dessers.
The decision comes as the three-time African champions intensify preparations for the continental tournament, scheduled to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Nigeria, drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda, is aiming to secure a fourth AFCON title after finishing as runners-up to Ivory Coast in the 2023 final.
Durosinmi's Impressive Form and Recovery
Chelle's interest in Durosinmi is reportedly fueled by the player's strong performances this season, particularly in the UEFA Europa League. The coach is said to have been so impressed that he personally spoke with the player's agent to confirm his availability before including him in the preliminary squad.
A source within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) revealed, "I can tell you that Chelle spoke with the agent of Durosinmi before including him in his list of players for the tournament. We will wait to see if he makes the final 28-man list."
The young striker's resurgence is noteworthy, having successfully recovered from a serious double ACL injury. This season, according to data from Transfermarkt, Durosinmi has scored 12 goals in 27 matches across all competitions. His most recent contribution was a crucial league goal in Viktoria Plzen's 2–1 victory over Mlada Boleslav.
Broader Squad Context and Future Prospects
It is understood that Coach Chelle initially submitted an expanded 55-man list to the NFF, which will later be pruned down to the final 28-man squad for the tournament in Morocco. This period of rebuilding and reassessment follows the Super Eagles' painful failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, after a penalty shootout defeat in the playoffs.
Durosinmi's club future is also attracting attention, with several English Football League (EFL) clubs, including Hull City, Derby County, Oxford United, and Huddersfield Town, reportedly monitoring his situation ahead of the January transfer window. The striker is out of contract next summer, adding to the intrigue surrounding his next move.
As the Super Eagles shift their full focus to continental glory, the potential integration of a fresh attacking talent like Rafiu Durosinmi signals a proactive approach from Eric Chelle. The final squad list, eagerly awaited by Nigerian football fans, will reveal if this promising 22-year-old has done enough to secure his place as a key understudy to Victor Osimhen on Africa's biggest stage.
