NFF Shifts Super Eagles–Egypt Clash As AFCON Prep Intensifies
By FRED LONGJOHN OBEH
THE Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed a new date for the Super Eagles’ pre-AFCON 2025 friendly against Egypt, moving it from Sunday 14 December to Tuesday 16 December in Cairo. The change follows FIFA’s recent directive that clubs are not required to release players for AFCON duty until 15 December, prompting both federations to adjust the fixture to ensure full squad availability.
The friendly, now classified as a practice match, allows unlimited substitutions, enabling coach Eric Chelle to assess more players from his 54-man provisional squad. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. local time (7 p.m. Nigerian time) at Cairo International Stadium.
The match is a crucial test for Nigeria after missing the 2026 World Cup, offering Chelle a chance to evaluate team shape, fitness, and tactical options ahead of AFCON 2025 in Morocco. The Super Eagles are drawn in Group C alongside Tanzania (23 December), Tunisia (27 December), and Uganda (30 December), with all games staged in Fes.
For Egypt, the friendly is equally vital as they prepare for Group B clashes against South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe at Stade d’Agadir. The encounter provides both sides a high-level warm-up before Africa’s premier continental tournament.
