Super Eagles B head coach, Justin Chelle, has officially named his final 23-man squad for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), with key local league stars such as Stephen Nduka, Godwin Obaje, and Sikiru Alimi making the cut.
The announcement marks the end of weeks of intense training and selection trials, as the coaching crew evaluated home-based talents from across the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). CHAN is unique in that it features only players who play in their country’s domestic leagues, making it a vital platform for showcasing local talent on the continental stage.
Chelle’s final selection reflects a strategic balance between experienced heads and promising newcomers. Godwin Obaje, a proven goal scorer, returns to lead the attacking line, while midfield dynamo Sikiru Alimi adds creativity and discipline in the middle of the park. Defender Stephen Nduka is expected to marshal the backline with calm authority.
Speaking at the squad unveiling, Chelle emphasized inclusivity, discipline, and national pride: “This is a team that represents every corner of Nigeria. We’ve built a squad not just on skill, but on commitment and character. They’re ready to give their all.”
Analysts say the squad is well-positioned to compete in Algeria next month, where Nigeria has been drawn in a challenging group. However, there’s optimism that this team can go deep in the tournament — and possibly match or surpass Nigeria’s runner-up finish in 2018.
“This is more than just a football competition,” noted sports journalist Bisi Adebayo. “It’s an opportunity for NPFL players to prove they can compete on the African stage and even break into the full Super Eagles squad.”
As preparations enter the final stretch, the CHAN 2025 squad carries the hopes of millions of Nigerian fans — and the promise of what homegrown talent can achieve when given the spotlight.
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