Morocco 2025: Profiling 10 Super Eagles AFCON debutants

Femi Fabunmi

Super Eagles AFCON Debutants: Ten New Faces Ready for the Continental Stage
As Nigeria prepares for AFCON 2025, the Super Eagles are set to introduce a new generation of players eager to make their mark at Africa’s biggest football tournament.

Drawn from clubs across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, these ten AFCON debutants represent depth, diversity, and renewed ambition as Nigeria chases continental glory.

Tochukwu Nnadi has enjoyed a steady rise with SV Zulte Waregem in Belgium. The 22-year-old midfielder has featured in 16 matches this season, displaying tactical discipline and composure. His ability to recycle possession and break up opposition play adds balance to Nigeria’s midfield options.

Amas Obasogie earns his AFCON debut as a goalkeeper with Singida Blackstars of Tanzania. At 25, and with four appearances this season, he arrives as a calm and focused presence between the posts, ready to seize a rare opportunity to impress on the continental stage.

Igoh Ogbu brings strength and assurance to the Super Eagles’ defence.The 25-year-old centre-back, currently with Slavia Prague of Czechia, has played seven games this season. His aerial dominance and physicality make him a valuable option against Africa’s powerful attackers.

Ryan Alebiosu offers energy and consistency from right-back. The 23-year-old has already made 20 appearances for Blackburn Rovers in England, highlighting his durability and tactical awareness. His pace and crossing ability add width to Nigeria’s defensive setup.

Ebenezer Akinsanmiro represents youthful promise in midfield. Just 21, the Pisa player has featured 12 times in Italy this season, showing maturity in possession and an ability to link play effectively between defence and attack.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru arrives with Serie A experience from Lazio. At 24, and with seven appearances this season, he brings dynamism, pressing intensity, and a knack for driving forward from midfield qualities that can unsettle even the most organised opponents.

Cyril Dessers provides experience and leadership in attack. The 31-year-old Panathinaikos forward has scored two goals in 14 games this season, offering strength, intelligent movement, and a reliable presence in the final third.

Akor Adams adds power and work rate up front.The 25-year-old Sevilla striker has also found the neNt twice in 14 appearances, combining physical presence with relentless pressing, attributes well suited to tournament football.

Muhammed Usman brings calm and experience to midfield. At 31, and playing for Ironi Tiberias in Israel, he has featured in 11 matches in 2025. His tactical awareness and leadership qualities could prove vital in guiding younger teammates through high-pressure moments.

Salim Fago Lawal rounds off the list as one of the most exciting young attackers in the squad. The 22-year-old forward from Istra 1961 in Croatia has recorded five goals and two assists in 17 games this season, underlining his creativity, pace, and growing confidence in front of goal.

Together, these ten AFCON debutants embody the Super Eagles’ blend of youth and experience, offering fresh energy and renewed hope as Nigeria targets success at #AFCON2025.