August 27, (THEWILL) – Nigeria’s Super Eagles have named their squad for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda in September.
The 23-man list sees the return of key players, including William Ekong, Olaoluwa Aina, Victor Osimhen and Taiwo Awoniyi, after their absences from recent fixtures. Ekong, who was named Player of the Tournament at the 2024 AFCON, rejoins the squad after recovering from injury. Aina, Awoniyi and current African Player of the Year Osimhen also make their comebacks following spells on the sidelines.
The squad comprises three goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders and seven forwards. Notable inclusions are goalkeeper Amas Obasogie of Bendel Insurance and defender Olisa Ndah from Orlando Pirates.
Awoniyi returns for the first time since Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Lesotho in a 2026 World Cup qualifier last November. AFCON 2024 standout, Stanley Nwabali, is among the goalkeeping options.
The Super Eagles will face Benin at Uyo’s Godswill Akpabio Stadium on September 7, before travelling to take on Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on 10 September 10. All players are expected to report to camp in Uyo by September 2, to begin preparations.
The squad features a mix of domestic and foreign-based talent, with players representing clubs across Europe, South Africa and Saudi Arabia. Key names like Samuel Chukwueze, Kelechi Iheanacho and Alex Iwobi are included as Nigeria aims to build on their AFCON success earlier this year.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
