How FIFA Ruling Disrupts Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 Preparations
Nigeria’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations have been disrupted after a late directive from FIFA forced the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to change its plans.
The new development may also lead to the cancellation of the highly expected friendly match against Egypt.
The Super Eagles were meant to begin camp in Cairo on 10 December, four days before playing Egypt in a friendly at the Cairo International Stadium. The game was one of two warm-up matches planned before the team travelled to Morocco, where the AFCON will take place.
However, the plan has been affected by FIFA’s decision to move the mandatory release date for African players. European clubs were originally required to release players on 8 December, but a new FIFA circular now allows them to keep their African players until 15 December.
This is a major setback for Nigeria because most of head coach Eric Chelle’s key players are based in Europe. With many unavailable until 15 December, the NFF must now rethink the team’s schedule and camp location.
According to ScoreNigeria, the Super Eagles will now open camp on 14 December, just one week before the tournament begins. The camp will also move from Cairo to Morocco.
This change puts the Egypt friendly in doubt. It can no longer be played in Cairo, and although both sides could agree to move it to Morocco, many believe it may be cancelled. If it goes ahead, it could be the only warm-up match for both teams.
Nigeria’s build-up has already faced other problems. Injuries to Ola Aina, Taiwo Awoniyi, Benjamin Fredrick and Felix Agu have weakened the squad, while captain William Troost-Ekong announced his retirement from international football on Thursday. Troost-Ekong was named Player of the Tournament at AFCON 2023, making his departure a big loss.
Coach Chelle, who released a 55-man provisional squad this week, must now reduce it to 28 while working with a tighter schedule and limited preparation time.
Nigeria are in Group C with Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania. They are aiming to win their fourth AFCON title, having last won in 2013.
Despite the setbacks, expectations remain high. Chelle will hope his players can settle quickly in Morocco and build momentum ahead of tough challenges from teams like Senegal, Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire and the hosts.
