So now it’s Moses Simon and Akor Adams saving Nigeria again? Funny how the same team people were calling “finished” suddenly turns into world-beaters the moment they scrape a 2-1 win over Iran. Let’s be honest—one decent performance and everybody starts acting like the Super Eagles have solved all their problems overnight. Where was this energy when the team was struggling and fans were complaining non-stop? Nigerians love to switch narratives faster than the scoreboard changes. Relax, it’s just one match—not a World Cup final.

The Super Eagles are set to face World Cup debutants Jordan national football team in an exciting four-nation tournament that promises to test Nigeria’s strength ahead of upcoming international competitions.

This fixture is more than just another friendly. It is a strategic clash designed to sharpen tactics, assess squad depth, and build chemistry within the team. With global football becoming increasingly competitive, every match now carries weight — even outside major tournaments.

Jordan’s rise has been one of the more inspiring stories in recent international football. After securing qualification for their first-ever FIFA World Cup, they arrive at the tournament with confidence, discipline, and a point to prove. For them, facing a powerhouse like Nigeria is an opportunity to measure their growth against established football pedigree.

For the Super Eagles, this tournament offers a valuable platform to blend experience with fresh talent. Nigerian fans will be watching closely to see how the coaching crew rotates the squad, experiments with formations, and addresses areas that have drawn criticism in recent outings — particularly defensive coordination and clinical finishing.

Four-nation tournaments are often underestimated, but they provide a competitive edge that ordinary friendlies lack. With multiple teams involved, the stakes are naturally higher, and performances can influence rankings, morale, and public confidence.

This encounter between Nigeria and Jordan also represents a broader narrative in global football — emerging nations challenging established forces. It is a reminder that the game is evolving, and no opponent can be taken lightly.

As anticipation builds, supporters will be eager to see whether the Super Eagles assert their dominance or whether Jordan continues its fairytale rise on the international stage.

One thing is certain: this tournament will not just be about preparation — it will be about pride, progress, and proving a point.

World football governing body FIFA is set to deliver a decisive ruling on Monday, February 16, regarding Nigeria’s eligibility protest against DR Congo.

The protest was officially lodged by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) following concerns over the eligibility of a player fielded by the DR Congo national football team in a recent fixture involving the Nigeria national football team.

While full details of the complaint have not been publicly disclosed, eligibility cases in international football typically involve issues such as nationality documentation, registration compliance, or administrative irregularities. Such matters are treated seriously by FIFA, as they can directly impact match results, tournament standings, and qualification outcomes.

The decision expected on Monday could carry significant consequences. If the ruling favors Nigeria, it may lead to disciplinary action against DR Congo, including possible forfeiture of the match or a points deduction. On the other hand, if FIFA dismisses the protest, the existing results will stand.

For Nigerian football fans and stakeholders, the outcome is highly anticipated, as it could influence Nigeria’s position in the competition and shape the broader narrative of the campaign.

French media outlet L’Équipe has reported that Nigeria national team head coach Éric Chelle has been offered to Olympique de Marseille, sparking fresh conversations about his future with the Super Eagles and the growing reputation of Nigerian football managers on the global stage.

Chelle, who took charge of Nigeria with the task of rebuilding and stabilising the national team, has been quietly earning plaudits for his tactical discipline and player management. His name now surfacing in discussions around a club as big as Marseille shows how quickly his stock is rising in European football circles.

Marseille, one of France’s most historic clubs, have been searching for a manager capable of restoring consistency and identity to the team. According to L’Équipe, Chelle has been “offered” as a potential option, highlighting that decision-makers see him as a coach with both the temperament and experience to handle pressure at a high-profile club.

For Nigeria, the news comes with mixed emotions. On one hand, it is a badge of honour that the Super Eagles’ coach is being considered by a European giant. On the other, it raises questions about continuity and long-term planning, especially with crucial international fixtures and tournaments on the horizon.

As of now, there has been no official confirmation from Marseille, the Nigeria Football Federation, or Chelle himself. But the report alone is enough to ignite debate among fans: should Chelle remain focused on his Nigerian project, or is a return to club football in Europe the natural next step?

One thing is certain — Nigerian football remains firmly in the global conversation, and any move involving the Super Eagles’ head coach will be watched closely both at home and abroad.

Ademola Lookman is set to begin a new chapter in his career after completing a move to Atlético Madrid from Atalanta.

The deal is worth €35 million, with an extra €5 million in add-ons. After making his final decision last night, Lookman agreed to a long-term contract, and Atlético are now preparing for his travel and medical.

This move comes after an impressive spell in Italy, where Lookman grew into one of Atalanta’s most important players. With his speed, confidence, and eye for goal, he became a fan favourite and a key player for Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

Joining Atlético Madrid is a big step forward. Under Diego Simeone, the club is known for hard work and strong team spirit — qualities that fit Lookman’s style perfectly. He is expected to add pace and creativity to their attack.

For Nigerian fans, this transfer is another proud moment. Seeing one of their own move to a top European club is inspiring and shows how far Nigerian football has come.

As he prepares for his medical and official unveiling, excitement is building. All eyes are now on Lookman as he gets ready to shine in La Liga.

The Super Eagles brought festive cheer to Nigerians as they celebrated Christmas while away in Morocco for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Coming off a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Tanzania in their opening fixture—thanks to goals from Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman—the team shared a cheerful video to mark the occasion, spreading holiday spirit despite being far from home.

In the video, several players including Victor Osimhen, Raphael Onyedika, Chigozie Awaziem, Stanley Nwabali, and Wilfried Ndidi appeared alongside members of the coaching team, such as head coach Eric Chelle and assistant coaches Fidelis Ilechukwu and Daniel Ogunmodede, also joined in the greetings, making the clip a full representation of the squad’s unity and camaraderie.

The stars of the Super Eagles wished Nigerians a “Merry Christmas” with warm smiles and festive gestures, showing a lighter, more personal side of the team beyond the competitive atmosphere of the AFCON tournament.

Fans across social media quickly responded, expressing delight at seeing their national heroes in such a joyful moment.

The Federal Government has fulfilled its pledge of housing and land allocations to members of the Super Eagles following their runner-up finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed that players have received certificates for the plots of land and housing units promised by President Bola Tinubu.

According to the federation, the documents were presented to the players at the team’s camp in Fez, Morocco, on Monday.

Nigeria finished second at the AFCON tournament, which was played in 2024, after losing 2–1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the final.
Following their return from the competition, President Tinubu hosted the players at the Presidential Villa, where he conferred the national honour of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) on each squad member. He also announced the allocation of a plot of land in the Federal Capital Territory and a flat to every player in recognition of their performance at the tournament.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have retained the no. 38 position in latest world FIFA men’s world ranking.
The ranking, which wad updated on Monday, had the Super Eagles maintain the position from November, when they had a total of 1,502 points, as there has not been any competitive matches since then.

The Super Eagles, who are currently in Morocco for the 35th edition of AFCON, follow Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, and Algeria, as African teams in the FIFA rankings.

Morocco are still Africa’s too team, ranked 11th, while Senegal is ranked 19th in the world. Nigeria are ranked 38th, while Algeria and Egypt are ranked 34th and 35th, respectively.

Tunisia, ranked 41st in the world, Côte d’Ivoire, ranked 42nd, Mali, ranked 53rd, DR Congo, ranked 56th, and Cameroon, ranked 57th, are among the other African teams in the top 10 on the continent.

After regaining the top spot from Argentina in September 2025, Spain is still at the top of the global rankings.

The top 10 spots are still occupied by England, Brazil, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and Croatia; France completes the podium in third place

Uganda Cranes players have boycotted a training session on Saturday over unpaid allowances, dealing a major blow to the team’s preparations ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
According to reports, several squad members refused to take part in the session in Morocco, citing delays in receiving their payments.

Players are also said to be seeking clarity on the exact allowances they are entitled to during their stay ahead of the tournament.

The development comes just days before Uganda is set to open its Group C campaign against Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles in Fès on Tuesday.

The Cranes face a tough challenge in a group that also features three-time African champions Nigeria and East African rivals Tanzania.

The strike has drawn widespread attention, with reports and social media posts highlighting the disruption to Uganda’s training schedule, raising questions about the team’s readiness for the opening match.

Nigeria’s arrival in Fés on Thursday evening, aboard a chartered flight from their final training camp in Cairo, signalled the reality of a stout challenge for a fourth continental title as the 35th Africa Cup of Nations finals commence in the Kingdom of Morocco on Sunday.
Winners at home in 1980, and in Tunisia in 1994 and South Africa in 2013, the Super Eagles will launch their onslaught for another title against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars on Tuesday in the historical city of Fés, with the added impetus of wanting to appease their teeming fans at home and in the diaspora over failure to qualify for next year’s FIFA World Cup finals in the Far West.

The retirement of William Troost-Ekong, on the margin of the team’s departure to Cairo for their final training camp, has opened the door for midfield enforcer Wilfred Ndidi to take the captain’s armband, with veterans Simon Moses and Alex Iwobi, and prolific forward Victor Osimhen as possible assistants.

The much-anticipated opening ceremony on Sunday, featuring among others, Nigeria’s globally-acclaimed singer Davido at the iconic Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, will be followed by the opening match between hosts Morocco and Comoros, with the Atlas Lions hoping for a great start to continue their incredible run of glory in international football.
Nigeria, who won their first AFCON title on home soil 45 years ago after defeating Tanzania in their first match, will strive for a huge win in order to be in good stead and retain a winning mentality ahead of clashes with difficult customers Tunisia (on Saturday, 27 December) and Uganda (on Tuesday, 30 December).

Coach Eric Chelle opened a window on his frame of mind going into the tournament when he spoke to CAFOnline.com last month. “When you coach Nigeria, you have to win everything.” It is the reality that he faces and has to deal with especially after the World Cup miss.

Tanzania, coached by Nigeria legend Emmanuel Amuneke (a 1994 AFCON winner) to qualify and participate at the 2019 finals in Egypt, will be making only their fourth appearance at the competition, and a second consecutive appearance following their outing in Cote d’Ivoire. They have played 9 matches overall, drawing three and losing six, without a single win.

Tunisia have 21 previous appearances at the championship (one more than Nigeria), and consistency is their middle name, Morocco 2025 being their 17th consecutive appearance. Their only previous triumph was on home soil in 2004, when they edged Morocco’s Atlas Lions in a tension-soaked Final in Rades. The Carthage Eagles have played a total of 83 matches at the AFCON, winning 25, losing 28 and drawing 30.

Among their previous losses were a 2-4 reverse to co-hosts Nigeria in 2000, and a lone-goal defeat by the Eagles in the third-place match of the 2019 finals in Egypt. There was another contentious third-place match, in Ghana in 1978, that was awarded to Nigeria after the Carthage Eagles walked off the pitch following a goal by Baba Otu Mohammed. Tunisia eliminated Nigeria in the Round of 16 in Cameroon four years ago.

Uganda’s Cranes have always proved difficult customers for the Super Eagles in any qualifying campaign or championship. Philip Omondi scored both goals to eliminate Nigeria in the semi-finals of the 1978 championship in Ghana, and since then, even with star-studded squads, the Eagles would always struggle against the Cranes. Their clash in Fes on Tuesday, 30th December is something to look forward to.

Uganda will be heading to their eighth participation in the AFCON, though they missed out in the last two finals in Cameroon and Cote d’Ivoire. The Cranes have played a total of 23 matches at the finals, winning only 4, drawing 3 and losing 16. Their runner-up position in Ghana in 1978, when they were crushed by Opoku Afriye-led Black Stars in a festive Final in Accra, remains their best result till date.

On the balance, the Super Eagles, who have played a total of 104 matches across their 20 previous outings, are expected to safely negotiate their way through the group stage in Fes, and then take it one-game-at-a-time in the knockout rounds in Morocco.

President of Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON) expressed his belief in the team to deliver in the North African kingdom.

“We have prepared the team with the objective of lifting the trophy. The FIFA World Cup miss still bites, but if we are able to win the Africa Cup of Nations, it will go a long way to assuaging the feelings of our fans at home and in the diaspora, and it will also be good for the present generation of Super Eagles as they will have at least one major triumph to their name.”

Gusau’s administration has done remarkably well to maintain the very best standards in travel, accommodation and other logistics for the team, despite challenging times and downturn in the global economy.

“It has not been easy, but we have to continue to appreciate and show that we value the contributions of the players and officials at all times. They have to travel and lodge in convenience, and that is something we must always find a way to work out despite the challenges that the Federation faces.

“I have confidence in the coaches and the players that we have to turn the present gloom around and make Nigeria proud in Morocco.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have appointed midfielder Wilfred Ndidi as its new captain.
This followed the recent retirements of Ahmed Musa and William Troost-Ekong.

Ndidi has been handed the armband after previously serving as stand-in captain on several occasions when both Musa and Troost-Ekong were unavailable.

With the Kano Pillars general manager and the Al Khoolood defender now retired from international football, Ndidi has officially been entrusted with the leadership role.
Speaking on the responsibility, Ndidi said, “It’s a huge responsibility, and with the help of the players, everything will go smoothly.

Ahead of the AFCON and the objective of the Super Eagles team, Ndidi said, “I have had conversations with the players, trying to make them understand the reason why we are here. We also need support from the staff and to have conversations about what’s ahead. It is very important that everyone is on the same page.”

He also paid tribute to his predecessor, William Troost-Ekong, praising his leadership and influence within the team.

“He is a great leader, he speaks for the team, he stands for the team. I admire him a lot. How outspoken he is. He is one person everyone looks up to. He is an amazing guy. I have learnt a lot from him. We spoke a couple of weeks ago, still chipped in some advice, i feel he is still part of the team. He is going to be missed.”

The Super Eagles’ camp in Cairo became a full house on Wednesday night with the arrival of Victor Osimhen, as Nigeria stepped up preparations for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Osimhen arrived at about 9:45 p.m. Nigerian time (10:45 p.m. local time), completing the list of 28 invited players for the continental showpiece scheduled from Dec. 21 to Jan. 18, 2026.

Promise Efoghe, Super Eagles Media Officer, confirmed the development to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), describing the striker’s arrival as a major morale booster for the team.

“Victor Osimhen joined the camp late Wednesday night, and that means that we now have all invited players in camp,” Efoghe said.

“It is a big lift for the squad because everyone is now focused on the same objective as final preparations begin in earnest.”

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NAN reports that the Super Eagles opened camp on Sunday, Dec. 14, at the Renaissance Hotels in Cairo, Egypt, with all coaches and backroom staff present.

Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho was the first player to arrive, touching down shortly after 2 a.m. local time on Sunday and setting the tone for early commitment ahead of the tournament.

The team has since held two training sessions, with the first on Monday and a second on Tuesday, before facing Egypt in a tune-up international friendly at the Cairo International Stadium.

Osimhen, as well as wingers Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze, were conspicuously missing from the friendly encounter as they concluded club commitments ahead of the tournament.

Nigeria lost the encounter 2-1 to the hosts, but Efoghe said the result would not distract the players from the bigger picture.

“The friendly against Egypt was purely for assessment and fine-tuning,” he said.

“The coaches were more interested in combinations, fitness levels and tactical understanding than the scoreline.”

Reacting to the friendly loss, defenders Chidozie Awaziem and striker Paul Onuachu expressed confidence that the team would be sharper when it matters.

Awaziem said the match exposed areas that needed attention, while Onuachu noted that the intensity would help the players adjust quickly ahead of the AFCON opener.

“These games will help us to correct mistakes early,” Awaziem was quoted as saying.

“It is better to learn now than during the tournament.”

Onuachu added that the squad remained united and motivated in spite of the defeat.

“We are not discouraged,” he said.

“The focus is on improving every day and being ready for our first group game.”

NAN reports that Wednesday’s programme included a gym session at 11 a.m. and an evening training session by 5 p.m., as preparations intensified.

The Super Eagles will depart Cairo on Thursday for Fés, where they will play their Group C matches against Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda, while Egypt move to Agadir for their Group B fixtures.

Efoghe said the mood in camp remained positive, stressing that the players were fully aware of expectations back home.

“There is a strong sense of responsibility in camp,” he said.

“The players know what Nigerians expect, and they are determined to give their best in Morocco.”

The 2025 AFCON will be hosted across several cities in Morocco, with Nigeria aiming to improve on their recent continental performances and challenge strongly for the title.

Full List: Super Eagles’ 28 AFCON Invitees in Camp by Order of Arrival

The following is the full list of the 28 Super Eagles players invited for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, arranged strictly in the order in which they arrived at camp:

Francis Uzoho

Stanley Nwabali

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Akinsanmiro Ebenezer

Amas Obasogie

Semi Ajayi

Ademola Lookman

Bright Osayi-Samuel

Igho Ogbu

Tochukwu Nnadi

Zaidu Sanusi

Paul Onuachu

Frank Onyeka

Calvin Bassey

Alex Iwobi

Wilfred Ndidi

Bruno Onyemaechi

Cyril Dessers

Akor Adams

Chidera Ejuke

Raphael Onyedika

Ryan Alebiosu

Salim Fago

Chidozie Awaziem

Usman Mohammed

Samuel Chukwueze

Moses Simon

Victor Osimhen

All 28 players are now in camp as the Super Eagles intensify preparations ahead of their Group C matches at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco

Nigeria’s most capped international, Ahmed Musa, has officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing to an end a distinguished career with the Super Eagles that spanned nearly 15 years.
In a heartfelt message addressed to Nigerians and football fans, the former Super Eagles captain reflected on a journey that began when he was a young player juggling call-ups to Nigeria’s U-20, U-23 and senior national teams simultaneously. Musa said representing Nigeria was never a decision he hesitated over, describing the green and white jersey as a symbol of pride and responsibility.

Musa earned 111 caps for the Super Eagles, a record that makes him the most capped player in the history of Nigerian football. He described the milestone as a “great honour,” noting that every appearance came with a deep sense of duty to give his best, regardless of circumstances.

Among the highlights of his international career, Musa pointed to Nigeria’s triumph at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations as a defining moment. He also recalled his goals at the FIFA World Cup, particularly against Argentina and Iceland, achievements that saw him score four goals at the tournament and become Nigeria’s highest goalscorer on the World Cup stage.

His tenure as Super Eagles captain was another major chapter in his career. Musa said wearing the armband taught him valuable lessons in leadership, patience and selflessness, stressing that his role was to support teammates, encourage younger players and defend the honour of the national badge, even during periods of
Reflecting on his career, Musa said football gave him a profession, but Nigeria gave his career meaning. He expressed gratitude to former teammates, coaches, backroom staff and administrators for their trust, as well as fans at home and abroad whose support sustained him throughout the years.

As he steps away from international football, Musa said he does so with a sense of peace and fulfilment, confident that the Super Eagles will continue to progress. He concluded by reaffirming his lifelong connection to the national team, declaring: “Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.”

He wrote, “Dear Nigerians,

Dear Super Eagles family,

After a lot of thought, I have decided to retire from international football, bringing to an end almost 15 years with the Super Eagles.

From the very first call-up, wearing the green and white meant everything to me.

I was just a young boy when the journey started. I remember being invited at the same time to the U-20, U-23 and the Super Eagles. I was young, still learning, and always travelling, but I never complained.

Whenever Nigeria called, I showed up. It was never something I had to think twice about.

Football took me to many places around the world, but Nigeria was always home.

Playing 111 matches for my country is something I hold with deep respect.

To become the most capped player in the history of Nigerian football is a great honour. Every time I wore the jersey, I understood the responsibility that came with it. I did my best to give everything I had, whether things were going well or not, because playing for Nigeria was always bigger than me.

There are moments I will never forget.

Winning the 2013 AFCON will always stand out. That team showed what it meant to play for Nigeria.

Scoring at the World Cup, against Argentina and Iceland, are memories I will always carry with me. To score four goals at the World Cup and be Nigeria’s highest goalscorer on that stage is something I am truly grateful for.

Being captain of the Super Eagles was another important part of my journey.

Wearing the armband taught me a lot, about responsibility, patience, and putting others first. It was never about being in charge, but about helping the team, supporting younger players, and standing up for the badge. Even during difficult times and criticism, my commitment to Nigeria never changed.

Football gave me a career, but Nigeria gave me meaning.

To my teammates over the years, the coaches, backroom staff, and administrators, thank you for believing in me. To the fans at home and abroad, in stadiums and in front of their TVs, your support meant more to me than you know.

As I step away from international football, I do so with peace and gratitude.

I know I gave my best. I know the Super Eagles will continue to move forward. And I know that this bond will never be broken.

Once an Eagle, always an Eagle.

Thank you, Nigeria.

Thank you for everything.

AHMED MUSA MON OON”

Egypt earned a confidence-boosting win over Africa Cup of Nations rival Nigeria just days before the tournament begins.
In a lively warm-up friendly in Cairo on Tuesday night, Egypt took a deserved lead through Mahmoud Saber just before the half-hour mark.

The ZED striker was set up by the impressive Zizo, who was a constant menace to Nigeria throughout, tapping in at the back post.

Nigeria showed little cohesion in attack, though their intent was clear. They were almost gifted an equaliser when Paul Onuachu’s long ball nearly resulted in an own goal by Yasser Ibrahim, with only a fine save preventing the embarrassing mishap.

That brief glimmer of hope seemed to inspire Nigeria, and they were soon level.

Zaidu’s free kick from the left struck Mohamed El Shenawy at his near post, who fumbled and let the ball roll under his body, allowing Chidozie Awaziem to head home from a yard out.

Egypt would have entered half-time frustrated but came out after the break full of momentum.

More fine work from Zizo created space for Mostafa Mohamed to drill home from inside the area, restoring Egypt’s lead.

Nigeria were unable to respond as Egypt finished the game on top.

Egypt kick off their AFCON campaign against Zimbabwe on Monday, while Nigeria face Tanzania the following day.

No fewer than 10 players have reported to the camp of the Super Eagles as preparations begin for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Super Eagles’ camp officially opened on Sunday at the Renaissance Hotels, Cairo, with all coaches and backroom staff already in attendance ahead of the tournament.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that goalkeeper Francis Uzoho was the first player to arrive, touching down shortly after 2 a.m. local time, signalling the start of full squad mobilisation.

Uzoho was named as one of three goalkeepers in head coach Eric Chelle’s 28-man squad, marking his return to the national team setup after more than a year on the sideline.

Stanley Nwabali followed as the second arrival, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro later arrived in the camp to raise the number to four.

Six more players Amas Obasogie, Semi Ajayi, Ademola Lookman, Igho Ogbu, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Tochukwu Nnadi arrived later, bringing the total number in camp to ten.

More players are expected to join in the coming hours as Nigeria intensifies preparations for the continental showpiece.

NAN also reports that the three-time African champions are scheduled to hold their first training session later this evening.

As part of their preparations, the Super Eagles will play a friendly match against the Pharaohs of Egypt on Tuesday at the Cairo International Stadium.

Nigeria will head into the 2025 AFCON looking to build on their runners-up finish at the last tournament, where they lost 2–1 to hosts Ivory Coast in the final.

The Super Eagles are aiming for a fourth continental crown, having previously won in 1980, 1994 and 2013.

The 2025 AFCON kicks off in Morocco on Dec. 21 and is expected to end on Jan. 18, 2026. (NAN)