AFCON 2025: Lineup against Uganda will surprise Nigerians – Chelle gives update on injuries

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has shared an update on the fitness of goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and midfielder Frank Onyeka.

The Malian gave the update during his media briefing on Monday, a day before his team’s final group game in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Chippa United captain, Nwabali, kept playing despite his injury during Nigeria’s 3-2 victory against Tunisia, and Moses Simon came on for Onyeka with eleven minutes left in the game.

Nwabali looked like he twisted his body badly while trying to stop Tunisia’s first goal, which made people worry about his knee, and later Onyeka was seen limping.

Nigeria is currently leading with six points and has already qualified for the round of 16, so now the focus is on whether Chelle might change his team lineup for the upcoming game against the Cranes.

When asked about updates on Nwabali and Onyeka, and if he would rotate his squad on Tuesday, Chelle spoke to reporters during the pre-match press conference.

He said, “Nwabali has a small knee pain, and Frank is dealing with an ankle problem.” We will take care of the situation for the team. I need to consider the whole team, and we have one last training session today.”

Chelle also mentioned possible changes to the starting line-up, saying that fitness issues will need to be handled carefully and could affect his final decision.

“The most important thing is how we feel before the game starts. It will come as a surprise to you when you see the starting eleven tomorrow, but right now, I can’t share any details.”

Out of the 28 players named in Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations squad, 10 have not played yet. They are Francis Uzoho, Igoh Ogbu, Cyriel Dessers, Muhammed Usman, Amas Obasogie, Raphael Onyedika, Salim Fago Lawal, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Ryan Alebiosu, and Tochukwu Nnadi.