The countdown is on for another blockbuster showdown in African football, as Egypt gets set to host the Super Eagles of Nigeria in an international friendly at the famed Cairo International Stadium on Sunday, December 14.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The fixture is a crucial part of both teams’ preparations ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and is expected to attract a huge turnout in the Egyptian capital.
Egypt’s head coach, Hossam Hassan, has already unveiled a 28-man provisional squad, signalling the start of a rigorous build-up. The Pharaohs’ camp opens on Wednesday, beginning with home-based players, while foreign-based stars—including Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush, Mostafa Mohamed, Hamdy Fathy and Ibrahim Adel—will join next week after completing club assignments.
Meanwhile, Hull City are reportedly making efforts to retain Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi for a little longer before he departs for national duty.
Ajayi was initially expected to join the Nigerian squad in Morocco shortly after Hull’s home clash with Wrexham on December 10, which would leave him with only two more games for the Championship side.
His outstanding performance in Saturday’s win over Stoke City—where he scored his first goal for the club and earned Man of the Match—has further fueled Hull’s desire to keep him for an additional fixture.
Discussions are ongoing with officials in Lagos, as Hull hopes to have Ajayi available until after their match against Millwall on December 14.
He is then expected to take a late-night flight from Heathrow to link up with the Super Eagles camp. There are indications that FIFA may allow clubs to release players on or after December 15, which would clear the way for Ajayi to feature in the Millwall game before joining Nigeria’s AFCON preparations.