With the final round of AFCON 2025 qualifiers just around the corner, Super Eagles interim coach Austin Eguavoen has announced a fresh 23-man squad to take on Benin Republic and Rwanda.

With key omissions and some unexpected inclusions, his latest picks will obviously get Nigerians buzzing, Footballrover reports.

From big returns to fresh faces, we’ve decided to list everything you need to know about Nigeria’s lineup, from four surprising picks to three key takeaways.

Here’s a closer look at Eguavoen’s intriguing squad choices and what they could mean for the Super Eagles.

1. Gabriel Osho’s comeback

Auxerre’s Gabriel Osho rejoins the Super Eagles after a brief absence, adding strength and experience to the defence.

He was last called up in March, and fans are eager to see if he can make a lasting impact this time around.

2. A missed opportunity for Taiwo Awoniyi

One of the surprises in Eguavoen’s lineup is the omission of Taiwo Awoniyi from Nottingham Forest.

While Awoniyi has not really been in top form, it seems the Super Eagles coach is experimenting with his options, giving others a shot at the spotlight.

3. Sadiq Umar returns to the fold

Back in the lineup is Real Sociedad’s Sadiq Umar. Fans will be excited to see what the versatile forward brings differently this time around especially with Nigeria eyeing a strong finish in Group D.

4. Newbie alert: Victor Collins from Nasarawa United

Nasarawa United’s Victor Collins is stepping up for the first time on the international stage, filling in for the injured Semi Ajayi.

This is a huge moment for the NPFL star as he joins the ranks of some of Nigeria’s biggest stars.

5. Attack trio in full force

Eguavoen has called up an impressive attack lineup featuring Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, and Ademola Lookman.

Osimhen, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, and Boniface, who is shining at Bayer Leverkusen, are primed to spearhead the attack, with Lookman adding firepower.

6. Midfield mix of young and experienced

With names like Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Frank Onyeka, the midfield boasts a blend of experience and youthful energy.

It’s a balanced mix that could be key in controlling the game against Benin and Rwanda.

7. Two matches to secure AFCON spot

Nigeria currently tops Group D with 10 points, needing just a draw in either of their final games to secure a ticket to AFCON 2025.

The Super Eagles will face Benin in Abidjan on October 14, followed by a match against Rwanda on home soil on October 18.

Austin Eguavoen’s selections certainly looks balanced with experienced players and fresh talent in the squad. The Super Eagles are ready to soar into AFCON 2025!

The full squad list for Benin and Rwanda qualifiers

Goalkeepers:

Stanley Nwabali
Maduka Okoye
Amas Obasogie

Defenders:

Gabriel Osho
Bright Osayi-Samuel
Bruno Onyemaechi
Victor Collins
Calvin Bassey
William Troost-Ekong
Ola Aina

Midfielders:

Wilfred Ndidi
Raphael Onyedika
Alhassan Yusuf
Frank Onyeka
Alex Iwobi
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Forwards:

Victor Boniface
Victor Osimhen
Kelechi Iheanacho
Sadiq Umar
Moses Simon
Ademola Lookman
Samuel Chukwueze

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