10 new faces set for AFCON Debut with Nigeria’s Super Eagles

With the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 approaching, Nigeria’s Super Eagles are preparing to blend proven stars with fresh talent as ten players get set to make their AFCON debut. Drawn from clubs across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, the newcomers reflect the depth and evolving identity of the national team under renewed ambitions for continental glory.

From emerging midfielders to powerful forwards and defensive reinforcements, these debutants will be hoping to leave a lasting impression on Africa’s biggest football stage.

Midfield Reinforcements

Tochukwu Nnadi (Zulte Waregem)

Tochukwu Nnadi

The 22-year-old midfielder has grown steadily in Belgium with Zulte Waregem. Featuring in 16 matches this season, Nnadi has shown calmness in possession and an eye for defensive positioning. His ability to recycle the ball and break up play gives Nigeria added control in midfield battles.

Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (Pisa)

At just 21, Akinsanmiro represents Nigeria’s next midfield generation. With 12 appearances for Pisa this season, he has impressed with his composure, passing range and understanding of transitions between defence and attack.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio)

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Bringing Serie A pedigree, Dele-Bashiru adds energy and vertical running from midfield. The 24-year-old Lazio player has featured seven times this season and is known for pressing aggressively and driving forward with the ball.

Muhammed Usman (Ironi Tiberias)

Muhammed Usman

One of the more experienced debutants, 31-year-old Usman provides calm leadership. Playing in Israel with Ironi Tiberias, he has logged 11 matches in 2025 and offers tactical awareness that could be vital in high-pressure knockout situations.

Related Article: AFCON isn’t just a Tournament; it is Africa’s Football Identity

Defensive and Goalkeeping Options

Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars)

Amas Obasogie

Obasogie earns his AFCON bow as a goalkeeper after consistent displays for Singida Blackstars in Tanzania. At 25, he brings focus and reliability, ready to step in when called upon at the continental level.

Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague)

Igoh Ogbu

The Slavia Prague centre-back strengthens Nigeria’s defensive depth. Ogbu, 25, has featured seven times this season and is valued for his aerial dominance, physical strength and ability to deal with direct attackers.

Ryan Alebiosu (Blackburn Rovers)

Ryan Alebiosu

Operating primarily at right-back, Alebiosu adds pace and stamina. The 23-year-old has already made 20 appearances for Blackburn Rovers, showing discipline defensively and confidence when pushing forward to deliver crosses.

Related Article: AFCON isn’t just a Tournament; it is Africa’s Football Identity

Attacking Debutants to Watch

Cyril Dessers (Panathinaikos)

Cyril Dessers

A familiar name at club level, Dessers finally gets his AFCON chance at 31. The Panathinaikos forward has scored two goals in 14 matches this season and brings experience, movement and a strong presence in the box.

Akor Adams (Sevilla)

Akor Adams

Adams offers physicality and relentless work rate up front. The 25-year-old Sevilla striker has two goals in 14 appearances and is known for pressing defenders and occupying centre-backs—an asset in tournament football.

Salim Fago Lawal (Istra 1961)

Salim Fago Lawal

Completing the list is one of Nigeria’s most exciting young attackers. Lawal, 22, has produced five goals and two assists in 17 games for Istra 1961 in Croatia. His speed, creativity and growing confidence make him a potential breakout star.

A New Chapter for the Super Eagles

These ten AFCON debutants underline Nigeria’s depth and global scouting reach. While experienced stars will carry expectations, the newcomers offer fresh legs, hunger and competition across every department.

As the Super Eagles chase continental success in 2025, all eyes will be on how these first-timers rise to the occasion when the pressure is highest.