Super Eagles Camp Gets Major Boost As Awoniyi, Lookman Join 20 Players

Taiwo Awoniyi and Ademola Lookman are among 20 players who have arrived in the Super Eagles camp as Nigeria steps up preparations for the opening fixtures of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The players are currently in camp ahead of head coach Éric Chelle’s first training session as the Super Eagles prepare to face Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau in their opening qualifying matches.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Awoniyi was called into the squad after Victor Osimhen was ruled out with an injury, while Lookman is also among the notable early arrivals as the team begins preparations for the qualifiers.

Other key players already in camp include Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Calvin Bassey and Ola Aina.

Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo is currently the only goalkeeper listed among the players who have arrived, while the defensive group consists of Isaac James, Emmanuel Fernandez, Benjamin Fredrick, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Chibuike Nwaiwu and Bruno Onyemaechi.

Iwobi, Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka make up the midfielders currently in camp, while the attacking options include Simon, Adams, Awoniyi, Moses Usor, George Ilenikhena, Lookman and Tolu Arokodare.

Captain Wilfred Ndidi, Samuel Chukwueze and goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali are expected to join the team, which would increase the number of players in camp to 23. Maduka Okoye is the only player from the 24-man squad whose arrival had not been confirmed in the latest update.

The Super Eagles are scheduled to begin their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, September 25.

Nigeria will then travel to Bissau to take on Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, with Chelle looking to guide the team to a strong start in the qualification series.

With the majority of the squad now assembled, the coach has an opportunity to begin tactical preparations and assess his players ahead of the two crucial opening fixtures.