Several Super Eagles players have begun reporting for duty in Egypt as Nigeria steps up preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who plies his trade in South Africa, was one of the earliest arrivals at the team’s base in Cairo.
He was soon joined by Francis Uzoho, along with Italy-based midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, as the national team’s camp officially opened on Sunday evening at the Renaissance Hotel.
More reinforcements are expected before the end of the night, with Igoh Ogbu, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Tochukwu Nnadi, Amas Obasogie, Ademola Lookman, and Semi Ajayi all scheduled to link up with the squad.
The Super Eagles will waste no time, as head coach Eric Chelle has lined up the team’s first training session for Monday.
Nigeria will then face long-time rivals Egypt in a pre-tournament friendly at the Cairo International Stadium on Tuesday, serving as the final tune-up ahead of the continental showpiece.
Earlier in the week, Chelle released his final 28-man squad for the tournament, making notable decisions that sparked discussion.
Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was omitted, while Francis Uzoho earned a return after a prolonged absence from the national setup.
The coach retained a strong core of experienced players, including Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, Calvin Bassey, Frank Onyeka, Ademola Lookman, and Nwabali, as he aims to strike a balance between stability and fresh energy.
The squad also features several returnees and debutants. Igoh Ogbu and Paul Onuachu are back in the fold, while promising newcomers such as Ryan Alebiosu, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Usman Muhammed, Tochukwu Nnadi, and Salim Fago Lawal are set for their first taste of senior international football.
Nigeria will lock horns with Egypt on December 16 before traveling to Fès, Morocco, where all their Group C matches will be played.
Also Read: Job Switch in 2026? These 10 Interview Questions Matter Most
The Super Eagles open their AFCON campaign against Tanzania on December 23, face Tunisia on December 27, and conclude the group stage against Uganda on December 30.
With the tournament just days away, Chelle’s men are now fully focused on sharpening their tactics and building momentum for what promises to be a demanding AFCON campaign.
