The Super Eagles begin their campaign at the 2025 African Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco later today at the Fez Stadium in Fes, hoping to secure maximum points when they clash against Tanzania.
Nigeria head into the clash on the back of a disappointing qualifying campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, after they failed to reach next year’s tournament, marking a second successive absence at the world showpiece event.
They defeated Gabon 4-1 in the CAF playoff semifinal tie, but suffered penalty shoutout heartbreak to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final after a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra-time.
The three-time champions were also finalists at the last AFCON in Ivory Coast, but were defeated by the host nation who produced a remarkable second half comeback to clinch victory and break the hearts of Nigerians.
Heading into this edition in Morocco, head coach Eric Chelle has named a strong 28-man squad, led by new captain Wilfried Ndidi and talisman Victor Osimhen as they will be eyeing a fourth African title.
In this article, SportPremi takes a look at five key players to watch in their opening clash against the Taifa Stars;
1. Victor Osimhen
Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen remains one of the most reliable players for the national team and will be hoping to lead them to success this time around after their near-miss in 2023.
The Galatasaray forward is only six goals off Rashidi Yekini’s all-time record and will have one eye on breaking that record, beginning with inspiring the Super Eagles to success in their opener against Tanzania.
A lot of Nigeria’s success at this tournament depends on the fitness and availability of the 26-year-old whose pace and physicality will cause the opposition a lot of problems.
2. Calvin Bassey
Fulham defender Calvin Bassey will be eyeing a major role for the Super Eagles especially in the absence of both of his center-back pairings.
Benjamin Fredrick is injured and will not play at the AFCON, while Troost-Ekong announced his retirement from international football, depriving the team of options in the defensive areas.
Bassey is certain to take up a spot in the center-back and will have the major responsibility in the backline, regardless of who partners him in defence.
3. Stanley Nwabali
Nigerian goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali announced himself to the African scene with a commanding display in goal at the last African Cup of Nations tournament.
The Chippa United goalkeeper was an injury doubt heading into this edition in Morocco, but has been passed fit and played 45 minutes in the friendly match against Egypt last week.
He will be expected to start in goal and must improve on his recent shaky outings for the national team as they chase a fourth continental crown.
4. Bright Osayi-Samuel
Bright Osayi-Samuel will be eyeing an important role for the Super Eagles at the right-back position in the absence of the injured first-choice option Ola Aina.
The Birmingham City defender will hope to stake a claim for the spot at the tournament, especially with competition from debutant Ryan Alebiosu.
His pace and potential linkup with Samuel Chukwueze on the right side of the Nigerian team will be one to watch out for against Tanzania in their AFCON opener.
