CAF Expands AFCON Squad Regulations Ahead of 2025 Tournament

The Confederation of African Football has approved new squad rules for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, allowing teams to register up to 27 players. CAF will cover expenses for 23 players, while the additional four must be funded by their respective federations.

The adjustment is intended to give coaches more flexibility in handling injuries, suspensions, and tactical demands during what is expected to be a congested tournament calendar. Nigeria’s Football Federation is preparing to release its provisional squad, with reports indicating that head coach Eric Chelle has already submitted a 55-man list.

The Super Eagles’ camp will open on December 8, with warm-up friendlies planned before the tournament begins. Nigeria is placed in Group C alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania. Their campaign starts on December 23 against Tanzania in Fès, followed by a highly anticipated clash with Tunisia on December 27.

Nigeria, runners-up at the last AFCON after losing to Ivory Coast, are aiming for their fourth continental title, having previously won in 1980, 1994, and 2013.