Eguavoen Unveils Super Eagles Squad for AFCON Qualifiers 2025: Osho, Sadiq In, Awoniyi, Tanimu Out
Augustine Eguavoen announces Nigeria’s 23-man squad for AFCON qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda, featuring newcomers Gabriel Osho and Sadiq Umar
Augustine Eguavoen, the head coach of the Super Eagles, has announced his 23-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The squad includes seasoned players as well as rising stars, with some surprises in store.
New Additions: Gabriel Osho and Sadiq Umar
- Gabriel Osho, an AJ Auxerre defender, and Sadiq Umar,
- A Real Sociedad attacker, made the cut.
- Osho is ready to make his Super Eagles debut, replacing Semi Ajayi, who has been out due to injury.
- Umar’s presence strengthens the team’s attacking options.
- Particularly with Victor Osimhen returning to the front line.
Notable Omissions: Taiwo Awoniyi and Tanimu Benjamin
Taiwo Awoniyi and Tanimu Benjamin are significant absentees from the team.
Awoniyi’s absence has caused some questions, but Eguavoen’s team selection is aimed at blending experience and emerging talent.
Squad Balance: Experience Meets Youth
Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and William Troost-Ekong are among the team’s season players.
while Alhassan Yusuf is one among its rising stars.
For more, read: 7 best football academies in Spain
This balance would be vital when Nigeria faces Benin and Rwanda in the qualifiers..
Full Squad List:
Goalkeepers:
- Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)
- Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy)
- Amas Obasogie (Fasil Kenema SC, Ethiopia)
Defenders:
- William Ekong (Al-Kholood FC, Saudi Arabia)
- Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey)
- Bruno Onyemaechi (Boavista FC, Portugal)
- Gabriel Osho (AJ Auxerre, France)
- Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England)
- Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England)
- Victor Collins (Nasarawa United)
Read, for more: Best Ways Of Achieving UEFA Coaching Badges As An African 2025
Midfielders:
- Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England)
- Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium)
- Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA)
- Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio FC, Italy)
- Frank Onyeka (Augsburg FC, Germany)
- Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England)
Forwards:
- Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy)
- Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray FC, Turkey)
- Ademola Lookman (Atalanta FC, Italy)
- Kelechi Iheanacho (Sevilla FC, Spain)
- Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)
- Moses Simon (FC Nantes, France)
- Sadiq Umar (Real Sociedad, Spain)
The new alterations to the Super Eagles lineup may not ensure success, but they improve their prospects.
Nigeria’s talents, like Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen, have demonstrated their potential to compete for top accolades.
The team’s superior goal tally of seven scored and none conceded, along with CAF’s allocation of three points and three goals owing to Libya’s forfeiture, puts them in a strong position.
The squad’s combination of experience and young is also beneficial.
Veterans like William Troost-Ekong and Wilfred Ndidi provide stability, while newcomers like Gabriel Osho and Sadiq Umar add new enthusiasm. .
Key Factors Contributing to Super Eagles’ Chances:
- Strong Squad Depth: The club features an excellent balance of seasoned players and young talents.
- Goal-Scoring Ability: Lookman and Osimhen have scored key goals.
- Previous Performance: The Super Eagles dominated their qualification group.
While these factors do not guarantee success, they improve the Super Eagles’ chances.
For more, read: super-eagles-showdown-boniface-wins-faceoff-against-chukwueze
The team’s performance against Benin and Rwanda will ultimately determine its success
Road to AFCON 2025.
Nigeria will use this team to gain valuable points on their way to AFCON 2025. The Super Eagles will take on Benin on November 20th and Rwanda on November 27th.
Coach Eguavoen’s Thoughts
“Our squad is balanced, with both experience and youth. “We’re confident in our abilities and prepared for the challenges ahead,” Eguavoen stated.
Fan Reaction
Nigerian fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts on the squad selection.
“I’m surprised Awoniyi wasn’t included, but Osho’s debut is exciting!” – @Naija_Football
“Sadiq Umar’s inclusion is a great boost to our attack!” – @SuperEaglesFan
The stage is set for the Super Eagles to take on Benin and Rwanda. Will they secure the points needed to progress in the AFCON qualifiers?
