5 Surprising players who could make the Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 squad

AFCON 2025: Five Unexpected Players Who Could Make Nigeria’s Super Eagles Squad

As excitement builds ahead of AFCON 2025, set to kick off in December, football fans across Africa are eagerly debating which players will make the final squad lists. For Nigeria, the anticipation is even higher following an update from the official Super Eagles social media accounts, confirming that the preliminary squad list will be released soon.

With head coach Eric Chelle preparing to submit his first draft, several surprise names are being discussed especially with Benjamin Fredrick expected to miss the tournament due to injury. This creates opportunities for unexpected inclusions as Chelle looks deeper into Nigeria’s talent pool.

Here are five players who could surprisingly make the Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 squad:

1. Paul Onuachu — Reviving His Case for Inclusion

Once seen as a static, one-dimensional striker, Paul Onuachu has enjoyed a resurgence in club form this season. His powerful aerial presence, hold-up play, and clinical finishing have made him a constant threat in the box.

Given Nigeria’s need for a reliable target man, Onuachu’s renewed confidence could earn him a place in Chelle’s squad. His ability to score from tight spaces and dominate defenders offers tactical flexibility for the Super Eagles.

2. Ahmed Musa — A Veteran’s Last Dance?

A call-up for Ahmed Musa would shock many, primarily due to his age and the fact that he is no longer active at the highest levels of European football.

However, Musa’s experience is priceless. Having captained Nigeria through multiple AFCON and World Cup campaigns, his leadership could steady a young Super Eagles squad. Chelle may not see him as a weekly starter, but rather as a seasoned presence capable of influencing games and the dressing room when it matters most.

3. Ola Aina — A Risk Worth Taking

Although Ola Aina is a familiar name, his inclusion would still be unexpected as he works his way back from a long-term injury.

The Nottingham Forest defender offers versatility able to play across both full-back positions and brings a high defensive IQ. If fully fit, Aina’s blend of energy, ball progression, and tactical awareness could be invaluable in a tournament as demanding as AFCON.

4. Terem Moffi — The Underappreciated Attacker

Often overshadowed by Nigeria’s more high-profile forwards, Terem Moffi tends to fly under the radar.

But Chelle may value what Moffi offers:

• intelligent off-ball movement

• relentless pressing

• an eye for finding space in crowded penalty areas

Moffi is especially effective in a two-striker system a formation Chelle has shown interest in. His efficiency and work rate could make him an unexpected but strategic selection.

5. Nathan Tella — A Wildcard on the Wings

While talented, Nathan Tella has yet to solidify himself as a consistent national team regular. His inconsistency often leads fans to overlook him.

Still, his explosive pace, direct dribbling, and defensive contribution make him a valuable asset for high-intensity AFCON matches. Chelle may be tempted to include Tella as a dynamic transitional winger capable of impacting games on both ends of the pitch.

Honourable Mention: Victor Boniface

Another name that could surface is Victor Boniface, who missed AFCON 2023 due to injury. With his remarkable development since then, Chelle may see AFCON 2025 as the perfect opportunity to reintegrate him and bolster Nigeria’s attacking depth.

As the preliminary list approaches, Nigerian fans can expect surprises. Whether Chelle chooses experience, form, or tactical versatility, the coming weeks will reveal the direction of the Super Eagles’ AFCON 2025 campaign.