Raphael Onyedika will represent Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Club Brugge confirmed his selection on Monday. This announcement came from the Belgian club’s official statement.
His inclusion is noteworthy. Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has not yet released his full squad list. Fans are eagerly awaiting the final announcement. Preparations for the tournament in Morocco are ongoing.
Club Brugge shared the news on their official website. They highlighted the 24-year-old midfielder’s invitation. Onyedika will once again play for Nigeria in a major competition.
This marks Onyedika’s second AFCON appearance. He was part of the squad that reached the final in Ivory Coast in 2023.
During the last tournament, he played only once. He came on for 27 minutes in the 1-0 victory against Guinea-Bissau. However, his influence at Club Brugge has grown significantly. This has strengthened his spot in the national team.
Onyedika debuted for Nigeria in September 2022. Since then, he has earned 17 caps. He has also scored once for the Super Eagles. His club form in Belgium this season is impressive. He has made 22 appearances across all competitions. This includes three in the UEFA Champions League. He has also scored two goals and provided one assist.
Onyedika’s Battle for Starting Spot
Despite his consistent performance, Onyedika faces a challenge. He needs to fully gain Coach Chelle’s confidence. The coach reportedly prefers Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka. They seem to be higher in the midfield pecking order.
Under Coach Chelle, Onyedika has played one full match. This was a 1-1 draw against Russia in June. His other appearances were late substitutions. These came in World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.
Potential Super Eagles Squad Breakdown
The defensive line is taking shape. Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Zaidu Sanusi are expected to be included. Captain William Troost-Ekong will not play. He announced his retirement last week.
Goalkeeping remains an area of concern. Stanley Nwabali is in a race against time to recover from injury. If he cannot play, Maduka Okoye may return. The Udinese shot-stopper could become the first-choice goalkeeper.
Midfield selections seem more straightforward. Ndidi, Onyeka, and Alex Iwobi are likely to lead the group. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru of Lazio, his brother Tom, and Alhassan Yusuf are also pushing for spots.
Nigeria’s attack boasts strong competition. Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Samuel Chukwueze will headline the forward line. Paul Onuachu, Akor Adams, Terem Moffi, and Rafiu Durosinmi are vying for other positions.
AFCON 2025 Tournament Details
AFCON 2025 begins on December 21. Nigeria starts their Group D campaign on December 23. Their first match is against Tanzania. Tunisia and Uganda are also in the same group.
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