Coach José Santos Peseiro has unveiled the Nigerian national football team's squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone in Monrovia. The 23-man roster includes some familiar faces as well as promising new talents, highlighting the depth and potential of Nigerian football.
Leading the pack of strikers is the in-form forward Victor Osimhen, who has had a stellar season with SSC Napoli in the Italian Serie A. Osimhen's remarkable tally of 31 goals across all competitions played a crucial role in Napoli's success, propelling them to their first league title in 33 years and a semifinal spot in the UEFA Champions League. To honour his outstanding performances, Osimhen was bestowed with the National Award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) by the Nigerian Government. Additionally, FIFA recognized his accomplishments by presenting him with a special ball and jersey.
Joining Osimhen in the forward line are skillful players such as Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, Taiwo Awoniyi, Kelechi Iheanacho, and the experienced captain Ahmed Musa. This talented group of attackers brings a blend of pace, creativity, and goal-scoring prowess, which will pose a significant threat to the Sierra Leonean defense.
The midfield is fortified with the likes of Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Joseph Ayodele-Aribo. These players bring a combination of technical ability, vision, and physicality to the team. Their presence in the middle of the park will provide stability, control, and the creative spark needed to supply the forwards with scoring opportunities.
In defense, the Super Eagles boast a solid backline comprising of William Ekong, Kenneth Omeruo, Zaidu Sanusi, Calvin Bassey, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, and Bright Osayi-Samuel. Their experience and defensive prowess will play a crucial role in ensuring the team's solidity at the back and minimizing the opposition's scoring chances.
Goalkeepers Adebayo Adeleye, Victor Sochima, and Olorunleke Ojo have been selected to guard the Nigerian goal. Their shot-stopping abilities, agility, and command of the penalty area will be crucial in maintaining a clean sheet and securing victory for the team.
The Super Eagles currently lead their qualification group with nine points from four matches, closely followed by Guinea Bissau's Wild Dogs with seven points. Sierra Leone's Leone Stars, who previously gave the Eagles a tough challenge in their initial encounter, are in third place with five points. Sao Tome and Principe are at the bottom of the group standings with only one point.
Nigeria's qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations hangs in the balance, and this upcoming match against Sierra Leone holds significant importance. A victory would bolster their chances of securing a spot in the prestigious tournament and allow them to showcase their footballing prowess on the continental stage.
With Coach Peseiro's astute selection of a balanced and talented squad, Nigerian football fans can expect an exciting and competitive match as the Super Eagles strive for victory and progress toward their ultimate goal of lifting the Africa Cup of Nations trophy once again.