Nigeria (super eagles players) advanced to the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final by winning a penalty shootout against South Africa in the semi-final.
The game ended 1-1 after extra time, and Nigeria clinched a 4-2 victory in the penalty shootout, with substitute Kelechi Iheanacho scoring the decisive penalty.
In the final, Nigeria will compete against hosts Côte d’Ivoire, who secured their spot with a 1-0 win over DR Congo, thanks to a goal from Sébastien Haller.
The final is scheduled for Sunday. Nigeria’s journey to the final featured strong performances, including a 1-0 triumph over Côte d’Ivoire in the group stage.
The Super Eagles are determined to win the tournament, while the Ivorians are holding on to their ambition to win as hosts. Football enthusiasts across Africa and the globe are eagerly anticipating the final.
List of Nigerian AFCON 2024 Super Eagles Players
- Stanley Nwabili – Goalkeeper
- Francis Uzoho – Goalkeeper
- Olorunleke Ojo – Goalkeeper
- William Troost-Ekong – Defender
- Bright Osayi Samuel – Defender
- Ola Aina – Defender
- Zaidu Sanusi – Defender
- Bruno Onyemaechi – Defender
- Semi Ajayi – Defender
- Calvin Bassey – Defender
- Chidozie Awaziem – Defender
- Kenneth Omuero – Defender
- Frank Onyeka – Midfielder
- Joseph Ayodele-Aribo – Midfielder
- Alex Iwobi – Midfielder
- Raphael Onyedika – Midfielder
- Alhassan Yusuf – Midfielder
- Kelechi Iheanacho – Forward
- Victor osimhen – Forward
- Terem Moff – Forward
- Samuel Chukwueze – Forward
- Ademola Lookman – Forward
- Moses Simon – Forward
- Paul Onuachu – Forward
- Ahmed Musa – Forward
Overview of the Nigerian AFCON 2024 Super Eagles Players
Recent investigations reveal that the Nigeria football squad holds the top spot as the most expensive national team in Africa.
The Super Eagles showcase considerable talent, particularly in their attack, with players scattered across the elite European leagues.
Key Players in Focus
Victor osimhen
At 24, Victor Oshimen stands as one of football’s most prolific strikers, ranking 8th in the 2023 Ballon d’Or. His exceptional performance in the 2022/2023 season played a pivotal role in Napoli’s title triumph, securing their first Scudetto in 33 years.
Oshimen, also a key player in the Nigerian national team, boasts an impressive record with 10 goals in six AFCON qualification games, bringing his Super Eagles tally to 20 goals.
Nominated for the African Best Player of the Year, Oshimen aims to make history as the first Nigerian player to win the award since Nwankwo Kanu in 1999.
As he joins the SSC Napoli striker, the former LOSC Lille forward will look to energize the Nigerian squad for AFCON 2024.
Kelechi Iheanacho
Kelechi Ihaeanacho, a vital part of Nigeria’s U17 2013 World Cup-winning team, continues to contribute to the Super Eagles.
Known for his ball control, composure, and passing ability, the 27-year-old Leicester City forward is expected to play a crucial role in creating goal-scoring chances for teammates Victor Oshimen and Victor Boniface.
Nigerian AFCON 2024 Super Eagles Players Strengths
Strong Attack
Nigeria’s strength lies in the formidable attack led by Victor Oshimen. Supported by Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman, and Terem Moffi, among others, the team boasts an impressive lineup of attackers from various European top leagues.
The combination of these talents, with the right motivation and midfield support, can make the Nigerian team unstoppable.
Solid Midfield
The midfield, characterized by athleticism, physicality, versatility, and technical ability, plays a pivotal role in intercepting opposition attacks and linking defense with the attack.
Wilfred Ndidi, the experienced Leicester City defensive midfielder, leads the middle, assisted by Frank Onyeka and Alex Iwobi.
Positive Attitude and Mental Strength
Beyond individual quality, the Nigeria football squad takes pride in its positive attitude and mental strength. This resilience has proven crucial in past tournaments, enabling them to overcome challenging situations and secure victories.
Meet the Coach: Jose Paseiro
Heading the Super Eagles is Jose Paseiro, a former Portuguese striker with coaching experience at the national level. Taking over from Augustine Eguavoen, Paseiro brings his expertise to guide the Nigerian team.
Notable Absences
While the official squad list for AFCON 2024 is pending, some notable players are expected to be absent.
Taiwo Awoniyi
Striker Taiwo Awoniyi, crucial to Nigeria’s AFCON qualifications, is expected to be sidelined due to a groin injury sustained during a World Cup qualifier.
Wilfred Ndidi
The absence of Wilfred Ndidi, a key midfielder, is notable due to an injury suffered during a club match, leaving a void filled by Alhassan Yusuf.
Victor Boniface
Nigerian talent Victor Boniface faces a sidelining until early April due to a knee injury, impacting Nigeria’s AFCON campaign.
As the Super Eagles embark on their AFCON journey, challenges loom with these absences. The first match against Equatorial Guinea on January 14 at 4 pm Cairo Local Time will be a test of the team’s adaptability and resilience.
AFCON 2024 Review
The 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has been filled with thrilling matches and unexpected outcomes. In the quarterfinals, Nigeria and South Africa had a tense game, leading to Nigeria securing a spot in the final after a 1-1 draw and a victory in the penalty shootout.
Sebastian Haller played a crucial role in Ivory Coast’s victory over DR Congo, earning them a place in the final. Teams like Senegal, Egypt, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast, considered favorites, have shown strong performances in the tournament.
The competition has been marked by well-managed officiating and the resurgence of some teams, making it a highly competitive and compelling AFCON.
