AFCON 2025 Squad Confirmed: Chelle Recalls Uzoho, Drops Okoye and Iheanacho in Final 28-Man Super Eagles List

Big Names Out, New Faces In as Super Eagles Chase a Fourth Title in Morocco
The moment of truth has arrived for the Super Eagles as Head Coach Eric Chelle announced Nigeria’s definitive 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. The list, submitted just ahead of the CAF deadline, features a blend of established European stars, sensational returnees, and surprising omissions, setting the stage for intense debate among fans ahead of the tournament kick-off on December 21st.

The announcement of the Super Eagles AFCON 2025 Squad Final List confirms a tactical shift in personnel, particularly in the goalkeeping and forward departments.

Key Omissions and Surprising Recalls

Chelle’s final selection sees several high-profile names left out, raising eyebrows across the Nigerian football community:

Notable Omissions: Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and forward Kelechi Iheanacho (Celtic) were both excluded, despite their recent club form. Also missing are the injured Ola Aina and striker Tolu Arokodare.

Big Returns: The most striking recall is that of goalkeeper Francis Uzoho (Omonia FC), who returns to the national fold after a long absence. Similarly, Trabzonspor striker Paul Onuachu has earned a spot following a strong run of form in the Turkish league.

The Star-Studded Attack and Youthful Midfield

Nigeria’s attack remains one of the most potent in the tournament, spearheaded by leading men who are expected to carry the team deep into the competition:

Forwards: Led by African Player of the Year nominee Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray), the attack includes Ademola Lookman (Atalanta), Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham), and experienced wide-man Moses Simon (Paris FC).

Midfield Engine: The core remains strong with Premier League duo Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas) and Frank Onyeka (Brentford) providing the necessary steel and experience.

New Faces: Chelle injected youth into the squad, handing senior international call-ups to several promising talents, including defender Ryan Alebiosu (Blackburn Rovers) and Inter Milan youth product Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (Pisa SC).