Nigeria coach Eric Chelle has unveiled a 54-man provisional squad for the 35th Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to kick off later this month in Morocco.
The list features six goalkeepers, 13 defenders, 12 midfielders and a massive 23 forwards, all of whom will be trimmed down to a final squad of 28 players for the tournament proper. After finishing as runners-up in the last edition in the Ivory Coast, Nigeria will be eager to take that extra step and secure a fourth continental title.
As the countdown begins, Footy-Africa breaks down the likely candidates to make Chelle’s final 28-man squad.
Goalkeepers
Chelle has invited six goalkeepers, but only three will make the final cut. Stanley Nwabali, the de facto number one, is a guaranteed inclusion.
The battle for the backup spots appears more straightforward, with Udinese’s Maduka Okoye expected to take the No. 2 role.
That leaves one slot available for the quartet of Ebenezer Harcourt, Francis Uzoho, Amas Obasogie and Adebayo Adeleye. Based on recent call-ups and form, former Bendel Insurance standout Amas Obasogie looks poised to claim that final spot.
Defenders
The defensive line is where Chelle will hope experience makes the difference, especially following the injury loss of promising youngster Benjamin Frederick. Captain William Troost-Ekong – possibly featuring in his last major international tournament – is a certainty.
Other consistent names expected to make the cut include Zaidu Sanusi, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi and the returning Igoh Ogbu.
With Ola Aina doubtful for the tournament, Bright Osayi-Samuel becomes an automatic pick. Ryan Alebiosu is also projected to earn his maiden tournament call-up as reinforcement at right-back. Nantes defender Chidozie Awaziem should complete the defensive unit.
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Midfielders
The midfield core remains stable, with Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika all expected to feature.
Lazio’s Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, now fully fit, should return. Alhassan Yusuf, who impressed at the last AFCON will likely retain his place.
Despite a difficult spell at Crystal Palace, Christantus Uche may benefit from the expanded squad size to earn inclusion.
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Forwards
Up front, Victor Osimhen remains the undisputed talisman, supported by a resurgent Ademola Lookman. Akor Adams, who has started two of Nigeria’s last three matches, will join fellow target-man Tolu Arokodare.
Top scorer in Turkey, Paul Onuachu, is expected to force his way back into the team, while Cyriel Dessers should also make the trip.
The creative burden from the wings will fall on Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze and Chidera Ejuke.
Footy-Africa’s Projected Nigeria Squad for AFCON
Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye, Amas Obasogie.
Defenders: William Troost-Ekong, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi, Bruno Onyemaechi, Calvin Bassey, Igoh Ogbu, Ryan Alebiosu, Chidozie Awaziem, Bright Osayi-Samuel.
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Christantus Uche, Alhassan Yusuf.
Forwards: Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Chidera Ejuke, Cyriel Dessers, Paul Onuachu.
