Raphael Onyedika Confirmed in Super Eagles Squad for AFCON 2025
Raphael Onyedika has been confirmed as part of Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after his club, Club Brugge, announced that he has received his invitation.
This confirmation comes while head coach Eric Chelle continues to delay the official release of the full Super Eagles squad list.
For Onyedika, this will be his second major tournament with Nigeria. He was also part of the team that reached the final at AFCON 2023, although he played only once in that competition. His strong performances for Club Brugge have kept him in the national team picture, and he has become one of Nigeria’s most reliable midfielders in Europe. This season, he has made over 20 appearances for his club, including games in the UEFA Champions League, and has contributed goals and assists.
Since making his Nigeria debut in 2022, Onyedika has earned several caps and scored once. However, he still faces competition for a starting place, with Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka often preferred in midfield. Under Chelle, Onyedika has had limited playing time, starting only one match so far.
Chelle’s final squad is expected to include many familiar names. In defence, players like Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Zaidu Sanusi are likely to be included. Captain William Troost-Ekong will not feature after announcing his retirement.
There is uncertainty in goal, as Stanley Nwabali may miss the tournament due to injury. If he withdraws, Maduka Okoye is expected to return as Nigeria’s main goalkeeper.
In midfield, Ndidi, Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi are set to be automatic choices, while Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, his brother Tom, and Alhassan Yusuf hope to make the final cut.
The attack is the most competitive area. Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Samuel Chukwueze are almost guaranteed spots. Paul Onuachu, Akor Adams, Terem Moffi, and Rafiu Durosinmi are all fighting to be included.
AFCON 2025 kicks off on 21 December. Nigeria begin their Group D campaign against Tanzania on 23 December, with Tunisia and Uganda also in the group.
