Afrigather The Nigerian males’s nationwide soccer staff can be again in motion later this month for his or her last two video games within the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Tremendous Eagles will face Benin Republic in Abidjan on November 14 after which Rwanda’s Amavubi on November 18 in Uyo within the closing matches of the Group D marketing campaign.
Presently main the group with ten factors from 4 matches, Nigeria want just one extra level to verify their place at AFCON 2025 in Morocco.
Though the Nigeria Soccer Federation has but to launch the official squad record, experiences point out that interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen has already submitted his selections.
With the official announcement anticipated quickly, right here’s a breakdown of gamers unlikely to characteristic and others who stay questionable for the upcoming matches.
Who’s Out?
Accidents will stop a number of Tremendous Eagles regulars from collaborating in these qualifiers. West Brom defender Semi Ajayi, who has performed in each AFCON qualifier to this point, has been sidelined till the brand new 12 months.
Chidera Ejuke, who not too long ago returned to the nationwide staff after a two-year absence, suffered an damage whereas at Sevilla and hasn’t featured since.
Moreover, OGC Good striker Terem Moffi and Pink Star Belgrade ahead Peter Olayinka are nonetheless recovering, whereas Empoli’s Tyronne Ebuehi stays unavailable as he works again from a long-term damage.
Left-back Zaidu Sanusi, who not too long ago performed for Porto’s second staff, can also be racing in opposition to time to regain full health after being out for over eight months. His return could come too late for the video games in opposition to Benin and Rwanda.
Who’s a Doubt?
Kelechi Iheanacho, who not too long ago scored twice in Sevilla’s Copa del Rey fixture, has struggled to search out consistency, lacking key alternatives in La Liga.
Eguavoen would possibly think about more energizing attacking choices to guide the road in these essential fixtures.
Actual Sociedad’s Umar Sadiq has additionally had a tough 2024, netting solely as soon as this 12 months, which can impression his possibilities of choice.
Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho and striker Paul Onuachu are going through restricted enjoying time at their golf equipment, Omonia Nicosia and Southampton respectively, placing their locations within the squad doubtful.
Who’s Prepared for a Look-In?
This might be a chance for brand new faces to make their mark.
Josh Maja has impressed for West Bromwich Albion within the Championship and will add to his single Tremendous Eagles cap.
Southampton’s Joe Aribo has discovered type once more, whereas Christantus Uche, a standout for Getafe in La Liga, might be a invaluable addition.
Auxerre’s Gabriel Osho, stable in Ligue 1, could function an acceptable alternative for the injured Ajayi.
Ought to Eguavoen search expertise, Kenneth Omeruo of Konyaspor and Gent’s Jordan Torunarigha are reliable choices.
The Tremendous Eagles may also think about Ajax ahead Chuba Akpom, Sparta Prague’s Victor Olatunji, and Genk’s Tolu Arokodare, all of whom have been in superb type these days.
Rangers ahead Cyriel Dessers, with eight objectives and three assists in 18 appearances, has notably strengthened his case for a recall.
The Regulars
Whereas there’s uncertainty round some names, a core group of Tremendous Eagles regulars is prone to characteristic.
Captain William Troost-Ekong is anticipated to guide the squad, alongside Victor Osimhen, Stanley Nwabali, Wilfred Ndidi, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon.
Samuel Chukwueze, Frank Onyeka, Victor Boniface, Alex Iwobi, and Calvin Bassey are additionally anticipated to be within the combine barring any last-minute points.
Nigeria beat Benin 3-0 in Uyo and held Rwanda to a goalless attract Kigali throughout their earlier group-stage encounters.
Because the Tremendous Eagles head into these last qualifying video games, they are going to purpose to safe their place at AFCON 2025 with a robust end.
