Nigeria’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations got a boost as goalkeeper Francis Uzoho became the first player to report to the national team’s camp in Cairo, Egypt.
Uzoho, who plays for Omonia Nicosia in Cyprus, arrived at the Renaissance Hotel around 2 am on Sunday, setting the tone for the team’s build-up to the continental tournament.
The 27-year-old shotstopper’s early arrival is seen as a strong show of commitment, especially given his surprise inclusion in Nigeria’s AFCON squad.
Uzoho, Stanley Nwabali, and Amas Obasogie will compete for the Super Eagles’ starting goalkeeper role as Nigeria seeks to improve upon its previous AFCON final loss to Côte d’Ivoire.
The coaching crew has already reported, and the rest of the squad is expected to arrive from December 15—the deadline FIFA gave European clubs to release AFCON-bound players.
The team will play a friendly against Egypt on Tuesday at Cairo Stadium before proceeding to Fès, Morocco, for the group stage competition.
The Super Eagles are drawn in Group C, alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda, and will kick off their campaign against Tanzania on December 23.
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