The Super Eagles’ training base in Cairo has expanded to 24 players as Nigeria prepares for its Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) warm‑up match against Egypt. Recent arrivals include Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu, new invitee Salim Fago and defender Chidozie Awaziem. Earlier on Monday, Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman, defenders Semi Ajayi and Bright Osayi‑Samuel, goalkeeper Amas Obasogie, defender Igoh Ogbu and midfielder Tochukwu Nnadi joined the squad at the Renaissance Hotel. They were later joined by goalkeepers Francis Uzoho and Stanley Nwabali, midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro and forward Fisayo Dele‑Bashiru, who had checked in on Sunday.
Super Eagles Media Officer Promise Efoghe told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that 20 players took part in the first training session on Monday evening. “Training went smoothly, and the players showed good energy and commitment, which is encouraging at this stage of preparations,” he said. Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika and Alebiosu arrived shortly after the session, bringing the camp total to 22, with six more players expected soon.
The friendly against Egypt will be played on Tuesday at the Cairo International Stadium, kick‑off scheduled for 8 p.m. Egypt time (7 p.m. Nigeria time). “The match will help the technical crew assess team shape and readiness ahead of the AFCON challenge,” Efoghe added. After the game, the Eagles will depart Cairo on Thursday by chartered flight for Fez, where they will continue final preparations for the tournament in Morocco.
Nigeria, a three‑time AFCON champion, begins its quest for a fourth title on Dec. 23 against Tanzania under the theme “NAIJA 4 THE WIN.” The team will also face Tunisia on Dec. 27 and Uganda on Dec. 30 in Group C, with all matches at the Complexe Sportif de Fèz. Egypt, the only nation to win three consecutive AFCON titles, will play South Africa, Angola and Zimbabwe in Group B, with those fixtures in Agadir.
The expanded camp reflects the coaching staff’s effort to evaluate depth and tactical options before the continental showdown.
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