The Super Eagles have been forced to modify their pre-tournament plans for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after FIFA issued a new directive on player release dates according to ScoreNigeria.
Nigeria had originally planned to commence its AFCON training camp on December 10, but FIFA has now informed national associations that clubs are only obligated to release players from December 15. In response, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has shifted the opening of camp to December 14, leaving the coaching crew with a limited window to gather and fine-tune the squad before the competition begins.
The adjustment has also prompted a change in the team’s preparation venue. The NFF has abandoned its earlier decision to hold camp in Egypt and will now have the Super Eagles base in Morocco, the host nation of the 2025 AFCON. Officials believe the new location will ensure easier access to match facilities and reduce unnecessary travel stress ahead of the tournament.
Nigeria, three-time champions, head into the competition among the favourites to lift the trophy once again. The Super Eagles will also be aiming to go one step further than they did in the 2023 edition, where they finished as runners-up after a narrow 2-1 defeat to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the final.
The revised schedule reflects a wider challenge across African national teams, many of whom are now racing against time to prepare adequately under the new global release guidelines.
