London, Nigeria: The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has unveiled a 25-man Super Eagles squad for the upcoming 2025 Unity Cup, set to take place at the Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, West London.
Head Coach Eric Chelle announced the team list, which features a mix of Europe-based professionals and standout players from the domestic league. However, notable absentees include forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, both of whom miss out on the tournament.
Veteran internationals Moses Simon (FC Nantes), Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City), and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United) headline the selection, while former captain Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars) makes a notable return to the national team setup.
The squad also features Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) talents such as Junior Harrison Nduka (Remo Stars), Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Enugu Rangers), and Waliu Ojetoye (Ikorodu City), reflecting a strategic push to integrate homegrown talent.
The Unity Cup, scheduled to kick off on May 27, will see Nigeria face Ghana, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago in a four-nation tournament. Nigeria is set to open its campaign against archrivals Ghana on May 28, following the opening match between Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago. The final and third-place playoff are slated for May 31.
Speaking on the squad selection, Coach Chelle expressed optimism about the tournament. “The Unity Cup presents an opportunity to assess new players in competitive settings. It’s a key part of our preparation for the September and October international windows,” he said.
In addition to the Unity Cup roster, Chelle also named a 21-man squad for a high-profile international friendly against Russia, scheduled for June 6 at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. That list includes several players from the Unity Cup squad, along with returning figures such as team captain William Troost-Ekong, defender Olaoluwa Aina, full-back Bright Osayi-Samuel, and forward Victor Boniface.
The friendly and the Unity Cup are expected to provide valuable tactical insights and squad depth as the Super Eagles prepare for upcoming competitive fixtures.
By Taiwo Olatinwo/May 21,2025
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