Raphael Onyedika has secured a place in Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), according to Club Brugge, ahead of the official announcement from the Super Eagles.
The Belgian club confirmed Onyedika’s invitation to the tournament on Monday, even as head coach Eric Chelle has yet to officially release Nigeria’s final 28-man list.
The 24-year-old midfielder will make his second major tournament appearance for Nigeria, having been part of the squad that reached the AFCON 2023 final in Ivory Coast. Onyedika featured for 27 minutes in the 1-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau during that campaign.
Onyedika in training with the Super Eagles. Photo Credit: NFF
Since his international debut in September 2022, Onyedika has earned 17 caps and scored once for the Super Eagles. At Club Brugge, he has been one of Nigeria’s most consistent performers, making 22 appearances across all competitions this season, including three UEFA Champions League matches, and contributing two goals and one assist.
Despite his club form, Onyedika faces competition for a starting midfield role under Chelle, who appears to favour Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka. Onyedika has one full match under Chelle, a 1-1 friendly draw with Russia, and two late substitute appearances in World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Nigeria’s final 28-man squad will include key defenders such as Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Zaidu Sanusi. Captain William Troost-Ekong has retired, leaving a gap in leadership. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali remains a major doubt due to injury, with Maduka Okoye likely to step in if required.
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The Super Eagles’ forward line is highly competitive, led by Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Samuel Chukwueze. Paul Onuachu, Akor Adams, Terem Moffi, and Rafiu Durosinmi are among those vying for the remaining slots.
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AFCON 2025 begins on December 21, with Nigeria opening Group D against Tanzania on December 23, followed by matches against Tunisia and Uganda.
