The Super Eagles intensified preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Tuesday, conducting their second training session at Cairo International Stadium with 24 players now available. Defenders Salim Fago and Chidozie Awaziem became the latest arrivals, strengthening head coach Eric Chelle’s squad options.

Goalkeepers Francis Uzoho, Stanley Nwabali, and Amas Obasogie participated in the session. They were joined by defenders Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Zaidu Sanusi, and Igho Ogbu. Midfielders present included Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika, Frank Onyeka, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Akinsanmiro Ebenezer. The attacking unit featured Ademola Lookman, Paul Onuachu, Cyril Dessers, Akor Adams, and Chidera Ejuke.

Tonight’s high-profile friendly against Egypt will proceed without several star players. Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah, Manchester City attacker Omar Marmoush, and Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen will all miss the match. Both national teams prioritized caution over risk with the AFCON tournament approaching.

Egyptian coach Hossam Hassan opted to rest Salah and Marmoush following their delayed camp arrival. Osimhen remains absent from Nigeria’s Cairo camp despite departing Turkey. Egyptian media confirmed the absences were pre-planned to allow recovery time.

Egypt’s AFCON Preparations

Egypt conducted training with 26 players on Monday night, focusing on tactical adjustments ahead of their AFCON opener against Zimbabwe. The team faces minor fitness concerns, with Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet resting after dental work and midfielder Ibrahim Adel recovering from an ankle injury. Both players are expected to be available for the tournament.

The Egyptian Football Association confirmed Mahmoud Nagi will referee tonight’s friendly, assisted by Samir Gamal and Youssef El-Basaty with VAR technology in use. Egypt will depart for Morocco on Wednesday evening to continue their AFCON preparations.