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AFCON 2025 Fever: Super Eagles Squad Gathers, Poised for Victory

Published 7 hours ago3 minute read
Precious Eseaye
Precious Eseaye
AFCON 2025 Fever: Super Eagles Squad Gathers, Poised for Victory

Nigerian international players have delivered compelling final performances for their respective clubs across Europe and beyond, reinforcing a sense of strong momentum as they prepare to join the Super Eagles' AFCON camp in Egypt. This collective display of quality, featuring goals, assists, robust performances, and timely returns to form, suggests that the squad is peaking at an opportune moment, heading into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with more than just a reputation.

In Spain, Super Eagles forwards Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke played pivotal roles in Sevilla's commanding 4-0 victory over Real Oviedo, which ended a concerning run of three consecutive LaLiga defeats. Akor Adams wasted no time, opening the scoring in the fourth minute with a composed finish, marking his third league goal of the season. He then turned provider, assisting Djibril Sow to double Sevilla's lead. Chidera Ejuke, making a late appearance, sealed the comprehensive win in stoppage time with a brilliant solo effort, his first goal of the season. For both players, these were impactful send-offs before their international assignments.

Among the fresh call-ups, 22-year-old Lawal Salim Fago continued to justify his inclusion in Eric Chelle's AFCON squad. Playing for Istra 1961 in Croatia, Fago scored his fifth goal of the season just five minutes into a match that was eventually abandoned at 1-1. This was his second goal in as many games since being named in Nigeria's final AFCON list, showcasing both confidence and form as he approaches his first major senior international tournament.

Midfield stability and defensive strength were also evident. In England, Frank Onyeka, a combative midfielder valued for his energy, pressing, and tactical discipline, was named on the bench for Brentford's clash with Leeds United and is now set to join the Super Eagles. In Belgium, Raphael Onyedika maintained his steady form, playing 79 minutes in Club Brugge's dominant 5-1 away win against Dender. With 14 league appearances and a goal this season, Onyedika provides crucial balance and composure in midfield. Furthermore, Bruno Onyemaechi made a timely return to Olympiacos' starting lineup in Greece, marking his sixth league appearance after missing previous fixtures, a reassuring sight for a squad seeking defensive depth.

Key attackers also boosted their fitness. Cyriel Dessers made his first start in 17 matches for Panathinaikos following a prolonged injury spell. The striker, signed from Rangers, now has four league appearances and one goal, and his improved fitness is a significant advantage for Nigeria's attacking options. Meanwhile, vice-captain Wilfred Ndidi demonstrated invaluable leadership and durability, captaining Beşiktaş from midfield and playing the full 90 minutes in a thrilling 3-3 draw against Trabzonspor in Turkey.

Beyond these individual highlights, the broader picture is one of a squad arriving in sync. Both established stars and new faces are reaching the Super Eagles camp sharp, confident, and battle-ready. Goals have been scored, crucial minutes have been logged, injuries have been shaken off, and roles have been reaffirmed. As Nigeria prepares for their AFCON campaign, the message from their club performances is unambiguous: this is a team moving with purpose, unity, and belief, arriving on time and ready to contend.

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