Salim Lawal, Awaziem boost Super Eagles camp to 24 ahead of Egypt friendly

Newly invited forward Salim Fago Lawal and Nantes defender Chidozie Awaziem have reported to the Super Eagles camp in Cairo as Nigeria continue preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Their arrival takes the number of players in camp to 24, with only four players yet to report.

Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Muhammed Usman and Moses Simon are expected to link up with the squad in the coming hours.

Chelle steps up on-field preparations

Head coach Eric Chelle oversaw the team’s first training session on Monday evening at the main bowl of the Cairo International Stadium.

A second training session took place Tuesday morning at the same venue.

Egypt friendly set for Tuesday evening

The Super Eagles will test their readiness against the Pharaohs of Egypt in a pre-AFCON friendly later today, with kick-off fixed for 7pm.

Both teams have been granted permission to make more than the standard five substitutions, allowing extensive squad rotation and tactical assessment.

Group rivals also gear up

Elsewhere, Nigeria’s Group C opponents have also intensified preparations.

Tunisia began their build-up on Monday at the Mohammed VI Football Academy in Salé, Morocco, while Uganda are set to fine-tune their readiness with a friendly against Gabon on Wednesday.