The Super Eagles Squad for the AFCON 2023 Qualifiers

The Super Eagles Squad for the AFCON 2023 Qualifiers
Credit: Iconsport

Super Eagles coach José Santos Peseiro has handpicked a formidable roster of players, including some notable stars, to secure victory in their upcoming AFCON qualification game.

The Nigerian national team is set to face off against the Leone Stars of Sierra Leone in an eagerly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 qualifying match. The match will take place at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium in Monrovia on Sunday, June 18, as Sierra Leone lacks an approved stadium for international matches.

Leading the charge for the Super Eagles is none other than the in-form forward, Victor James Osimhen. With an astounding 31 goals in all competitions for SSC Napoli this season, Osimhen's outstanding performances were instrumental in Napoli's success in both the UEFA Champions League and the Italian Serie A. His remarkable achievements recently earned him the prestigious National Award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) from the Nigerian government. As a token of recognition, FIFA also presented him with a special ball and jersey, cementing his status as one of Africa's finest talents.

Joining Osimhen are other talented individuals who have proven their mettle on the international stage. Captain Ahmed Musa, a pillar of leadership and skill, brings his wealth of experience to guide the team to victory. Adebayo Adeleye, the talented goalkeeper from Hapoel Jerusalem, Israel, will be a formidable last line of defense, while William Ekong and Kenneth Omeruo will lend their defensive prowess to ensure the opposition finds no easy path to goal.

In the goalkeeping department, Adebayo Adeleye has been called upon to fill the void left by the injured Francis Uzoho. Adeleye brings his talent and experience to the squad, ready to showcase his shot-stopping abilities and keep the opposition at bay. The Super Eagles can count on his reliability between the posts.

The midfield is fortified with the presence of Alex Iwobi, known for his creative playmaking abilities, and Wilfred Ndidi, a tireless workhorse in the center of the pitch. Exciting young talents like Samuel Chukwueze and Frank Onyeka provide the team with the spark and energy needed to break down Sierra Leone's defense. The Super Eagles' striking force is further bolstered by the likes of Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman, Kelechi Iheanacho, and the goal-scoring sensation Taiwo Awoniyi.

Coach Peseiro's selection demonstrates his commitment to assembling a balanced and dynamic squad that combines experience and youth. The inclusion of home-based talents such as Victor Sochima, Olorunleke Ojo, Ebube Duru, and Divine Nwachukwu serves as a testament to Nigeria's depth of talent across the country.

As the Super Eagles soar to the top of their qualification group, the team is brimming with confidence. With nine points from four matches, they lead the pack, closely followed by Guinea Bissau's Wild Dogs. The Leone Stars, who put up a formidable fight in their previous encounter with the Super Eagles, are determined to turn the tide this time around and secure a victory on home soil.

The clash between Nigeria and Sierra Leone promises to be an enthralling spectacle, showcasing the best of African football. The Super Eagles are eager to showcase their skills, entertain fans, and secure another crucial win on their path to the Africa Cup of Nations. Football enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await this captivating showdown, eagerly anticipating the thrills, goals, and moments of brilliance that are bound to unfold on that fateful Sunday evening in Monrovia.

The Super Eagles Squad for the AFCON 2023 Qualifiers

Goalkeepers

Adebayo Adeleye (Hapoel Jerusalem, Israel); Victor Sochima (Rivers United); Olorunleke Ojo (Enyimba FC)

Defenders

William Ekong (Watford FC, England); Calvin Bassey (Ajax FC, The Netherlands); Kevin Akpoguma (TSG Hoffenheim, Germany); Chidiebube Duru (Rivers United); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England); Kenneth Omeruo (CD Leganes, Spain); Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Portugal); Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce FC, Turkey)

Midfielders

Joseph Ayodele-Aribo (Southampton FC, England); Alex Iwobi (Everton FC, England); Divine Nwachukwu (Bendel Insurance); Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England)

Forwards

Moses Simon (Nantes FC, France); Samuel Chukwueze (Villarreal FC, Spain); Ademola Lookman (Atalanta FC, Italy); Victor Osimhen (SSC Napoli, Italy); Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest, England); Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England); Ahmed Musa (Sivasspor K, Turkey)

This article was most recently revised and updated 1 year ago

Rababe Koussaimi, a 22-year-old journalist, is deeply passionate about the world of sports. She grew up in a footballing environment, supporting both Bayern Munich and Wydad Athletic Club. She began her English journalism career by hosting a podcast for the first English radio station in Morocco. Currently, the Moroccan journalist channels her enthusiasm into writing and conducting extensive research, creating insightful and engaging content for GoalBall Live readers.