The anticipation for the 2025 CHAN reached new heights as Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle unveiled his 35-man provisional squad for the tournament set to take place in August across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The announcement signals the beginning of Nigeria’s quest to claim their first-ever CHAN title, with fans and analysts alike eager to see how the home-based stars will fare on the continental stage.
Eric Chelle has opted for a blend of experience and youthful exuberance in his provisional list. The squad features standout performers from the Nigeria Premier Football League, including captain Junior Nduka, midfield dynamo Papa Daniel Mustapha, and prolific forward Anas Yusuf, the NPFL’s top scorer. Notably, promising goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt, who impressed at the U20 AFCON, also makes the cut.
Chelle’s selection is a statement of intent, aiming to build a competitive squad capable of challenging Africa’s best. The coach emphasised the importance of domestic talent, with all players playing their trade within Nigeria’s local league system.
Prospects and Expectations
Nigeria has been drawn into a challenging Group D alongside defending champions Senegal, Sudan, and Congo. The Super Eagles B will need to be at their best to progress, but optimism abounds. Key players such as goalkeeper Henry Ani, fullback Sodiq Ismaila, and midfielders Saviour Isaac and Haddi Haruna are expected to play pivotal roles. Forwards like Anas Yusuf and Sikiru Alimi will be relied upon for goals, while the leadership of Junior Nduka will be crucial in high-pressure moments.
However, there are some notable absentees. Fans have pointed out the omission of Atule Joseph and Sunday Megwo, both of whom were instrumental in the qualifiers but did not make the provisional list. But the biggest surprise is the omission of Kano Pillars striker Ahmed Musa, who recently captained the squad at the Unity Cup in Brentford.
With a squad brimming with talent and guided by a tactically astute coach, Nigeria’s prospects are promising. The Super Eagles B will be determined to go one better than their 2018 runner-up finish and finally lift the coveted trophy. The competition for places is fierce, and Chelle will have tough decisions to make before finalizing his 23-man squad for the tournament.
Full 35-Man Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers:
- Henry Ani (Enyimba), Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars), Nurudeen Badmus (Kwara United), Lawal Mustapha (Shooting Stars), Ebenezer Harcourt (Sporting Lagos)
Defenders:
- Sodiq Ismaila (Remo Stars), Waliu Ojewole (Ikorodu City), Bankole Afeez (Kwara United), Taiwo Abdulrafiu (Rivers United), Uzondu Harrison (Ikorodu City), Junior Nduka (Remo Stars), Mohammed Kabiru (Kwara United), Ngengen Leonard (Ikorodu City), Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Rangers International), Stephen Manyo Egbe (Rivers United)
Midfielders:
- Adebayo Olamilekan (Remo Stars), Adejoh Ojonugwa (Abia Warriors), Saviour Isaac (Rangers International), Musa Zayyad (El-Kanemi Warriors), Haddi Haruna (Remo Stars), Otaniyi Taofik (Rivers United), Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes), Adam Aminu (Kano Pillars), Michael Tochukwu (Remo Stars)
Forwards:
- Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United), Adamu Abubakar (Plateau United), Shola Adelani (Ikorodu City), Sikiru Alimi (Remo Stars), Temitope Vincent (Plateau United), Ijoma Anthony (Abia Warriors)