Nigeria Selects Ex-Gunner Alebiosu for AFCON Squad
Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu has been included in Nigeria’s provisional squad for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This marks his first call-up to the Super Eagles as the team prepares for the tournament, set to start on December 21, 2025.
Nigeria’s AFCON Provisional Squad
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced a provisional list comprising 54 players. This extensive selection will narrow down to a final group of 28 players in the coming days.
Ryan Alebiosu’s Football Journey
Alebiosu, born in London, began his football career with Arsenal. He signed his first professional contract with the club in 2020, after a decade in their academy. His senior debut occurred during a loan with Crewe Alexandra. In 2023, Alebiosu transitioned to KV Kortrijk before joining Blackburn Rovers in July 2024. Since then, he has showcased his versatility by playing as a right-back and right midfielder, while primarily excelling in attacking roles.
Importance of Alebiosu’s Inclusion
The addition of Alebiosu is seen as crucial for Nigeria’s defense. The team is currently dealing with injuries to key players, including Ola Aina, and the absence of young talent Benjamin Fredricks. As he recently changed his nationality from England to Nigeria, Alebiosu’s potential impact is eagerly anticipated.
Training and Friendlies Ahead of AFCON
Nigeria’s Super Eagles will commence their training camp in Egypt on December 10. The team plans to engage in a series of friendly matches against yet-to-be-determined opponents before the tournament begins.
Group Stage Matchup
In AFCON 2025, Nigeria will compete in Group C against Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda. The team’s strategy and lineup adjustments will be critical to their success in this challenging group.
Key Players Included in the Provisional Squad
- Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, Maduka Okoya, Adebayo Adeleye, Francis Uzoho, Ebenezer Harcourt
- Defenders: William Ekong, Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Chidozie Awaziem, Zaidu Sanusi, Igoh Ogbu, Felix Agu, Ryan Alebiosu, Adekunle Adeleke
- Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi, Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, Christantus Uche, Tochukwu Nnadi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Usman Muhammed, Peter Agba, Tom Dele-Bashiru
- Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen, Simon Moses, Chidera Ejuke, Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams, Olakunle Olusegun, Sadiq Umar, Kelechi Iheanacho, Taiwo Awoniyi, Victor Boniface, Paul Onuachu, Terem Moffi, Nathan Tella, Cyriel Dessers, Abdulrasheed Shehu, Rafiu Durosinimi, Ekeson Okorie, Chisom Orji, Chukwubuikem Ikwuemesi, Philip Otele, Salim Fago Lawal, Emmanuel Michael
The anticipation builds as Nigeria prepares for AFCON 2025, with Ryan Alebiosu’s selection highlighting the team’s commitment to both new talent and experienced players.
