Osimhen Named Super Eagles Assistant Captain Ahead Of AFCON 2025

Osimhen Named Super Eagles Assistant Captain Ahead Of AFCON 2025
Ndidi confirmed captain while Osimhen takes over penalty duties for Nigeria.
Nwabali draws attention with new look before Tanzania opener in Morocco.

Victor Osimhen has been appointed the Super Eagles’ main assistant captain, signalling a fresh leadership structure as Nigeria intensify preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

EDITOR’S PICKS

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Galatasaray striker will deputise for newly named captain Wilfred Ndidi and has also been handed the responsibility of serving as Nigeria’s first choice penalty taker. The new roles underline Osimhen’s growing influence within the national team setup.

The leadership reshuffle follows the international retirement of former captain William Troost Ekong, who previously wore the armband and was Nigeria’s designated penalty specialist.

Wilfred Ndidi was officially confirmed as the Super Eagles’ new captain on December 19, 2025, with the decision seen as part of a broader effort to refresh the squad’s leadership ahead of the continental tournament.

Beyond Ndidi and Osimhen, other senior figures in the team include Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon. Both players have been part of the Super Eagles for nearly a decade, with Iwobi currently the most capped member of the squad, followed closely by Simon.

Attention has also turned to first choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali ahead of Nigeria’s opening Group C fixture against Tanzania. The Chippa United goalkeeper recently unveiled a bold blonde hairstyle, widely interpreted as a show of confidence as the tournament kicks off.

The 29 year old has become a key figure for Nigeria since breaking into the squad at AFCON 2023, where he kept four clean sheets and played a crucial role in the team’s run to the final. The former Enyimba and Katsina United shot stopper remains the trusted option between the posts.

Nwabali is expected to feature with his new look when Nigeria face Tanzania later today, December 23, with kick off scheduled for 6.30pm Nigerian time.