AFCON 2025: Eric Chelle Names Final Super Eagles Squad — Ekong Missing, Osimhen and Ndidi Lead Charge
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has officially unveiled his 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, trimming down his earlier provisional list of 50 players. The announcement comes ahead of the competition deadline, which closed on December 10.
The biggest talking point is the absence of long-serving captain William Troost-Ekong, who recently retired from international football. His leadership and presence will certainly be missed, but Chelle has moved quickly to reinforce the team’s spine.
Vice-captains Wilfred Ndidi and Victor Osimhen headline the squad, alongside a blend of experienced internationals and rising talents across Europe.
The squad features goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, and Francis Uzoho, while the defence will be marshalled by Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi and others. In midfield, Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Ndidi, and Raphael Onyedika form a solid mix of creativity and steel.
Up front, Chelle has called on an exciting attacking lineup including Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Chidera Ejuke, Akor Adams, Paul Onuachu, Cyriel Dessers, and goal machine Osimhen.
Opinion: Chelle’s Squad Shows Courage — But Ekong’s Absence Leaves a Leadership Gap
Looking at this list, one thing is clear: Eric Chelle is building a team for the future, not just a squad for a tournament. The absence of Troost-Ekong, though inevitable after his retirement, leaves a visible hole in leadership and defensive organisation. Ekong has been the calming voice in the Super Eagles’ backline for years, and replacing that won’t be easy.
However, Chelle deserves credit. His selections show bravery and intentionality. He has blended youthful hunger with seasoned experience. Players like Alebiosu, Akinsanmiro, and Fago Lawal bring fresh energy, while Osimhen, Lookman, and Ndidi add the star power expected of a top-tier African side.
This is a squad capable of competing — and capable of surprising. But one thing remains certain:
If the Super Eagles are going to thrive at AFCON 2025, new leaders must emerge, and Chelle must mould this group into a unified, disciplined force.
Nigeria has the talent. Now it’s time to show the continent the mentality.
