Super Eagles Camp Hits 24 as Nigeria Prepare for AFCON Friendly Against Egypt

By Michael Odegbe
The Super Eagles’ preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations have intensified in Cairo. Nigeria’s camp has expanded to 24 players ahead of Tuesday’s friendly against seven-time African champions Egypt.

The latest additions – Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu, newcomer Salim Fago, and experienced centre-back Chidozie Awaziem, have injected a breath of fresh air into the squad as preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco intensify.

On Monday, Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman headed a strong list of players checking into camp at the Renaissance Hotel, alongside defenders Semi Ajayi and Bright Osayi-Samuel. They were later joined by goalkeeper Amas Obasogie, defender Igoh Ogbu, and midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi, further strengthening the squad.

The trio was joined by Francis Uzoho, Stanley Nwabali, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who reported for camp on Sunday.

According to Promise Efoghe, spokesperson for the Super Eagles, 20 players participated in the team’s first training session on Monday evening – and everything was encouraging.

“Training went smoothly, and the players showed great energy and commitment, which is positive at this stage of preparation,” Efoghe said.

He confirmed that Raphael Onyedika from Club Brugge and Alebios arrived shortly after training, bringing the total number of players at camp to 22, with six more expected.

All eyes will now turn to the Cairo International Stadium on Tuesday evening, where Nigeria and Egypt will face off in a heavyweight friendly, billed as a dress rehearsal for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Kick-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM. local time (7:00 PM Nigerian time).

Efoghe noted that the clash with the Pharaohs will give the technical team a clear picture of the team’s form, cohesion, and readiness ahead of the continental final.

After the match, the Super Eagles will depart Cairo on Thursday on a chartered flight to Fez, Morocco, where final preparations will continue.

Nigeria, seeking a historic fourth Africa Cup of Nations title after triumphing in 1980, 1994, and 2013, will begin their Group C campaign on December 23 with a match against Tanzania under the banner “NAIJA 4 THE WIN.” They will also face Tunisia on December 27 and Uganda on December 30, with all group matches taking place at the Complexe Sportif de Féz.