Eguavoen releases Super Eagles squad for 2025 AFCON qualifier, Osimhen missing

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Stand-in Super Eagles coach Austin Eguavoen has named a 23-man squad for Nigeria's upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations doubleheader against Libya.

The fixtures are set to take place over the next week, with the first leg in Uyo and the return leg in Benghazi.

No Osimhen for Super Eagles against Libya
Photo by IMAGO

No Victor Osimhen for Super Eagles

One of the notable absentees from the squad is star striker Victor Osimhen, who has been ruled out with an injury, leaving a significant gap in Nigeria's attack.

Another player missing through injury is Orlando Pirates defender Olisa Ndah, who also won't feature during the international break.

In more positive news, Chidera Ejuke makes a long-awaited return to the national team after a two-year absence.

The winger, known for his pace and dribbling skills, has been recalled to bolster Nigeria's wide options.

Also returning to the squad is Bright Osayi-Samuel, who missed the last international window but is back in contention this time.

Ademola Lookman, who has been in exceptional form recently, earns his spot in the squad, while Victor Boniface will continue to spearhead the attack.

The squad also includes Amas Obasogie, who has recently moved to Ethiopia, and Benjamin Tanimu of English League One side Crawley Town.

Eguavoen lists 23 for AFCON qualifier, Osimhen missing
Photo by IMAGO

Nigeria will play the first leg of this crucial qualifier against the Mediterranean Knights at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday, 11th October.

They will then travel to Benghazi for the second leg at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium on Tuesday, 15th October.

The Super Eagles currently top their qualification group with four points after an impressive 3-0 win over Benin and a hard-fought draw against Rwanda in Kigali during the June international window.

No Osimhen for Super Eagles against Libya
Photo by IMAGO

Nigeria Squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers

Goalkeepers:
Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye, Amas Obasogie

Defenders:
William Ekong, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Olaoluwa Aina, Benjamin Tanimu

Midfielders:
Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, Alhassan Yusuf, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi

Forwards:
Samuel Chukwueze, Chidera Ejuke, Ademola Lookman, Kelechi Iheanacho, Victor Boniface, Moses Simon, Taiwo Awoniyi

<!-- Author Start -->Andrew Randa<!-- Author End -->

Andrew Randa

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Andrew Randa is a veteran Nigerian sports journalist with over 20 years of experience covering the beautiful game across Africa. Andrew served as a Media Officer for Nigeria's U-20 Men's National Team for three years, offering a unique perspective on the future stars of Nigerian football. Beyond reporting, Andrew is a pioneer in sports graphics creation within Nigeria. His expertise extends to sports kit design, making him a true multi-faceted talent in the African sports landscape.