Nigeria’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations have been thrown into disarray following a late directive from FIFA that has forced the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to overhaul its pre-tournament plans.
The sudden development has placed the highly anticipated friendly match against Egypt in serious doubt.
FIFA’s late decision disrupts Nigeria’s schedule
The Super Eagles were originally due to open camp in Cairo on 10 December and face the Pharaohs four days later at the Cairo International Stadium. That fixture was planned as the first of two warm-up games before the squad travelled to Morocco, the host nation, to settle into their AFCON base.
However, FIFA’s new circular issued this week, has changed the mandatory release date for African players. Rather than 8 December, European clubs can now hold on to their Africa-bound footballers until 15 December, seven days later than expected.
With most of Eric Chelle’s key players based in Europe, the change has created a significant logistical problem for the NFF. The original plans for an early camp and pre-AFCON friendlies have now become unworkable.
Egypt friendly now uncertain as Nigeria shifts camp to Morocco
According to ScoreNigeria, a revised schedule has been drawn up. The Super Eagles are now set to begin camp on 14 December, just one week before the continental showpiece kicks off.
The training camp, previously expected to hold in Cairo, has been moved entirely to Morocco.This adjustment puts the friendly against Egypt at serious risk. Holding it in Cairo is no longer viable, and although both football federations could attempt to stage the match in Morocco, there is a growing belief that the fixture may be cancelled altogether.
If it does go ahead, it may end up being the only warm-up match for both sides ahead of AFCON 2025.
Injuries and retirements compound Nigeria’s challenges
Nigeria’s build-up has already been hit by several setbacks.
Key players Olu Aina, Taiwo Awoniyi, Benjamin Fredrick and Felix Agu are currently recovering from injuries. Compounding matters further, captain William Troost-Ekong announced his international retirement on Thursday, a major blow given his Player of the Tournament award at AFCON 2023.
Head coach Eric Chelle, who named a 55-man provisional squad this week, must now cut the list to 28 while managing a shortened preparation window and a disrupted schedule.
Super Eagles remain focused despite turbulence
Nigeria, placed in Group C with Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania, are targeting a fourth AFCON title, having previously triumphed in 1980, 1994 and 2013.
Despite the setbacks, expectations remain high. Chelle will be counting on the team’s ability to settle quickly once camp opens in Morocco, as Nigeria prepares to face heavyweights such as Senegal, Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire and the host nation.
