Nigeria will head into the Africa Cup of Nations with five players set to make their maiden full international debuts for the Super Eagles, adding fresh energy and depth to Eric Chelle’s squad as the three-time champions chase a historic fourth continental crown.
When Chelle unveiled his final 28-man list, he included Ebenezer Akinsanmiro of Pisa (on loan from Inter Milan), Ryan Alebiosu of Blackburn Rovers, Usman Muhammed of Ironi Tiberias, Salim Fago Lawal of NK Istra and Tochukwu Nnadi of Zulte Waregem.
Of the five, three have previously represented Nigeria at youth or U23 level, with only Akinsanmiro and Alebiosu heading into the tournament without any prior international experience at any level.
In this feature, Footy-Africa profiles the new faces and what they could offer the Super Eagles as they target AFCON glory in Morocco.
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Ryan Alebiosu
The 23-year-old right-back is set to make his Nigeria bow when he links up with the Super Eagles in Egypt. Born in the United Kingdom to Nigerian parents, Alebiosu came through the ranks at Arsenal before establishing himself at Blackburn Rovers in the English Championship.
A modern full-back, he is comfortable pushing forward while remaining solid defensively, a trait that has seen him start every league game for Rovers this season. With Ola Aina unavailable, Alebiosu provides reliable cover and valuable versatility.
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Usman Muhammed
The experienced midfielder was a surprise inclusion in the provisional squad before making the final list.
Muhammed, fondly remembered for his stunning goal against Atlético Madrid in a friendly for the Nigeria ‘B’ team in 2018, now plays for Israeli side Ironi Tiberias.
At 31, he offers composure, ball progression and creativity from midfield. With 12 league appearances and a goal this season, he provides dependable cover for Alex Iwobi in central areas.
Tochukwu Nnadi
A combative ball-winner, Nnadi announced himself at the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina, where he led Nigeria in tackles and possession won.
That showing earned him a move to Belgian side Zulte Waregem in 2024.
He has since featured in 16 matches, supplying one assist and bringing high-intensity energy, even if it has resulted in seven bookings. He is unlikely to start, but offers stability off the bench.
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Ebenezer Akinsanmiro
A product of Beyond Limits Academy in Ikenne, Akinsanmiro joined Inter Milan three years ago and steadily climbed the ranks. After spells with Inter’s Primavera side and Sampdoria, he is now on loan at Pisa.
The midfielder has made 12 appearances this season, registering one assist.
His work rate, tackling and passing range make him a valuable squad option.
Salim Fago Lawal
One of Nigeria’s standout performers at the 2023 U20 World Cup, Lawal plays his club football with NK Istra in Croatia. He caught the eye with a powerful header in the 2-0 win over Italy.
Strong, quick and direct, the forward has four goals and two assists in 16 games this season. While his time may not be now, he remains one for the future.
With the new boys providing depth and competition, Eric Chelle will hope his squad can rise to the occasion and deliver Nigeria’s long-awaited fourth AFCON title.
