Head coach Eric Chelle will be without two of his most experienced attackers when the Super Eagles face Egypt in a high-profile preparation match ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Key Duo to Bypass Cairo Camp
According to reports, the attacking pair of Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon are not expected to feature in the friendly encounter against the Pharaohs. Instead of joining the team's camp in Cairo, the two senior players are scheduled to fly directly to Morocco to link up with the squad for the tournament proper.
This means Chelle will have to test his tactics and formations without his talismanic striker and a versatile winger in what is a final tune-up game before the continental championship kicks off.
Match Details and Squad Arrivals
The preparation match is set for Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 8 PM Nigerian time at the Cairo International Stadium. The fixture was initially planned for Monday but was rescheduled due to FIFA regulations allowing clubs to retain players until the match day.
So far, 15 players have reported to the Eagles' camp in Egypt. The early arrivals include all three goalkeepers: Amas Obasogie, Stanley Nwabali, and Francis Uzoho.
In defence, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Igoh Ogbu, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Zaidu Sanusi have checked in. The midfield contingent present includes Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Tochukwu Nnadi, Alex Iwobi, and Frank Onyeka. Forwards Paul Onuachu and Ademola Lookman are also in camp.
New Leadership and Tournament Preparations
In other team news, coach Chelle has confirmed new captains following the international retirement of William Troost-Ekong. Wilfred Ndidi will lead the team at AFCON 2025, with Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, and Victor Osimhen serving as his deputies.
After the Egypt match, the team will board a chartered flight to Fez, Morocco, their base for the group stage. Nigeria is in Group C and will begin their campaign against Tanzania on December 23, followed by clashes with Tunisia on December 27 and Uganda on December 30.
With Osimhen and Simon absent, Chelle may use the Egypt game to give minutes to other squad players like Ryan Alebiosu, Usman Muhammed, and Salim Fago Lawal as he finalises his plans for the tournament.
