Nigeria squad for Benin, Rwanda: Who’s out & who’s in doubt as Super Eagles look to secure AFCON 2025 spot

The Nigerian men’s national football team will be back in action later this month for their final two games in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The Super Eagles will face Benin Republic in Abidjan on November 14 and then Rwanda’s Amavubi on November 18 in Uyo in the closing matches of the Group D campaign.

Currently leading the group with ten points from four matches, Nigeria need only one more point to confirm their place at AFCON 2025 in Morocco.

Although the Nigeria Football Federation has yet to release the official squad list, reports indicate that interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen has already submitted his choices.

With the official announcement expected soon, here’s a breakdown of players unlikely to feature and others who remain questionable for the upcoming matches.

Who’s Out?

Injuries will prevent several Super Eagles regulars from participating in these qualifiers. West Brom defender Semi Ajayi, who has played in every AFCON qualifier so far, has been sidelined until the new year.

Chidera Ejuke, who recently returned to the national team after a two-year absence, suffered an injury while at Sevilla and hasn’t featured since.

Additionally, OGC Nice striker Terem Moffi and Red Star Belgrade forward Peter Olayinka are still recovering, while Empoli’s Tyronne Ebuehi remains unavailable as he works back from a long-term injury.

Left-back Zaidu Sanusi, who recently played for Porto’s second team, is also racing against time to regain full fitness after being out for over eight months. His return may come too late for the games against Benin and Rwanda.

Who’s a Doubt?

Kelechi Iheanacho, who recently scored twice in Sevilla’s Copa del Rey fixture, has struggled to find consistency, missing key opportunities in La Liga.

Eguavoen might consider fresher attacking options to lead the line in these crucial fixtures.

Real Sociedad’s Umar Sadiq has also had a difficult 2024, netting only once this year, which may impact his chances of selection.

Goalkeeper Francis Uzoho and striker Paul Onuachu are facing limited playing time at their clubs, Omonia Nicosia and Southampton respectively, putting their places in the squad in doubt.

Who’s Ready for a Look-In?

This could be an opportunity for new faces to make their mark.

Josh Maja has impressed for West Bromwich Albion in the Championship and could add to his single Super Eagles cap.

Southampton’s Joe Aribo has found form again, while Christantus Uche, a standout for Getafe in La Liga, could be a valuable addition.

Auxerre’s Gabriel Osho, solid in Ligue 1, may serve as a suitable replacement for the injured Ajayi.

Should Eguavoen seek experience, Kenneth Omeruo of Konyaspor and Gent’s Jordan Torunarigha are dependable options.

The Super Eagles might also consider Ajax forward Chuba Akpom, Sparta Prague’s Victor Olatunji, and Genk’s Tolu Arokodare, all of whom have been in fine form lately.

Rangers forward Cyriel Dessers, with eight goals and three assists in 18 appearances, has particularly strengthened his case for a recall.

The Regulars

While there’s uncertainty around some names, a core group of Super Eagles regulars is likely to feature.

Captain William Troost-Ekong is expected to lead the squad, alongside Victor Osimhen, Stanley Nwabali, Wilfred Ndidi, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon.

Samuel Chukwueze, Frank Onyeka, Victor Boniface, Alex Iwobi, and Calvin Bassey are also anticipated to be in the mix barring any last-minute issues.

Nigeria beat Benin 3-0 in Uyo and held Rwanda to a goalless draw in Kigali during their earlier group-stage encounters.

As the Super Eagles head into these final qualifying games, they will aim to secure their place at AFCON 2025 with a strong finish.