Super Eagles Arrive in London for 2025 Unity Cup: Full Squad List, Match Details & What to Expect

 


In an exciting development for Nigerian football fans, ten home-based Super Eagles players along with team officials have officially arrived in London, England, for the much-anticipated 2025 edition of the Unity Cup. This was confirmed early Monday morning, May 26, by the team’s media officer, Promise Efoghe, who provided timely updates about the team’s travel and preparations.

According to Efoghe, the squad touched down at Gatwick Airport, London, and is set to begin training immediately ahead of their opening match against arch-rivals Ghana, scheduled for Wednesday, May 28.

"The team landed safely at Gatwick Airport, London, and all players are in high spirits as preparations intensify for our first game against Ghana," Promise Efoghe stated.

This arrival signals the beginning of Nigeria’s campaign in the 2025 Unity Cup—a highly anticipated international football tournament featuring African and Caribbean nations. With Nigeria looking to reclaim glory, both fans and analysts are watching closely.


Full List of Home-Based Super Eagles Players in London

The Super Eagles delegation includes ten top-performing players from the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), representing some of the finest football talent currently based in the country. These players were carefully selected based on recent form, consistency, and potential contribution to the national team.

Here is the full list of home-based players already in London:

  • Ahmed Musa (Kano Pillars) – The experienced forward and former captain brings veteran leadership to the squad.

  • Junior Nduka (Remo Stars) – Known for his defensive solidity and ability to transition the ball from the back.

  • Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Enugu Rangers) – A strong center-back with aerial dominance.

  • Sodiq Ismaila (Remo Stars) – A pacey winger with good dribbling ability.

  • Waliu Ojetoye (Ikorodu City) – A rising star in Nigerian football with a knack for interceptions.

  • Papa Daniel (Niger Tornadoes) – A versatile midfielder who can play both offensively and defensively.

  • Saviour Isaac (Enugu Rangers) – Energetic midfielder known for work rate and ball distribution.

  • Collins Ugwueze (Enugu Rangers) – Another solid presence from the Enugu-based club, bringing technical skill and discipline.

  • Sikiru Alimi (Remo Stars) – An aggressive forward who poses a constant threat in the box.

  • Adamu Abubakar (Plateau United) – A reliable goalkeeper with excellent shot-stopping skills.

These players represent the best from Nigeria’s local league system and are expected to blend well with their foreign-based teammates as the tournament progresses.


✈️ Foreign-Based Super Eagles Players Expected to Join the Squad

In addition to the ten home-based players already in camp, several internationally renowned Super Eagles stars who ply their trade in top European leagues are expected to arrive in London in the coming days. These include both seasoned veterans and promising talents from across Europe and beyond.

Here are the foreign-based players expected:

  • Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United) – Emerging as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper after impressive AFCON 2024 performance.

  • Maduka Okoye (Udinese) – Brings Serie A experience and shot-stopping abilities.

  • Amas Obasogie (Singida Black Stars) – Another goalkeeping option with international exposure.

  • Bruno Onyemaechi – Dependable fullback with excellent crossing skills.

  • Semi Ajayi – Strong, experienced central defender.

  • Igoh Ogbu (Slavia Prague) – A technically sound defender with quick feet.

  • Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City) – Defensive midfield general and one of Nigeria’s most consistent performers.

  • Frank Onyeka (Brentford) – Box-to-box midfielder known for stamina and tackles.

  • Chrisantus Uche (Getafe) – A creative midfielder with flair and vision.

  • Moses Simon (Nantes) – Versatile winger with pace and the ability to break down defenses.

  • Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan) – Electrifying forward known for his speed and left-footed strikes.

  • Kelechi Iheanacho (Sevilla) – Skillful attacker who can play both as a striker and playmaker.

  • Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen) – Recent Bundesliga winner, known for explosive pace and sharp finishing.

  • Cyriel Dessers (Rangers) – A goal poacher and strong presence up front.

  • Tolu Arokodare (Genk) – Aerially strong forward with great hold-up play.

The arrival of these players is expected to significantly boost the quality and depth of the squad, giving head coach Finidi George multiple options for tactical flexibility.


🇳🇬 Nigeria vs Ghana: Rivalry Renewed on May 28

Nigeria’s opening game in the Unity Cup will be against none other than long-time West African rivals Ghana, in a highly anticipated match set to take place at the Gtech Community Stadium—home of Premier League side Brentford FC.

The Nigeria vs Ghana rivalry is one of the most historic and intense in African football, often referred to as the “Jollof Derby” by fans on social media.

Both nations have a storied past filled with tightly contested encounters, and this match is expected to be no different. With both teams looking to start the tournament strong, the stakes are incredibly high.


🌍 What is the Unity Cup? A Look at the Tournament’s History

The Unity Cup is an Afro-Caribbean international football tournament that promotes solidarity, culture, and sporting excellence among African and Caribbean nations. The tournament is making its much-awaited return in 2025 after a 21-year break.

The last edition of the Unity Cup was held in 2004, and it remains a fond memory for many Nigerian fans. Nigeria emerged champions, defeating the Republic of Ireland 3-0 and Jamaica 2-0 in dominant fashion.

This year, the participating teams include:

  • Nigeria

  • Ghana

  • Jamaica

  • Trinidad and Tobago

The tournament will kick off officially on Tuesday, May 27, with the opening fixture between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. The match will set the tone for what promises to be a thrilling series of games filled with skill, energy, and continental pride.


🔍 What This Means for Nigerian Football

The return of the Unity Cup is more than just another football tournament—it is a unique platform for Nigeria’s footballers to showcase their talent on an international stage, particularly for the home-based players. For many, this could be a stepping stone to securing contracts in Europe or other top leagues.

Additionally, it provides the new coaching setup under Finidi George an opportunity to test squad depth and tactical combinations ahead of future continental qualifiers and the FIFA World Cup.

With Nigeria looking to rebuild and establish consistency following their strong AFCON 2024 outing, the Unity Cup could serve as the perfect stage to galvanize both the team and its passionate fanbase.


🏆 Final Thoughts: Eyes on Glory Again

As Nigeria prepares to face Ghana in the 2025 Unity Cup, expectations are high, and the stakes could not be clearer. With a strong blend of home-grown and international talent, the Super Eagles are well-positioned to mount a serious challenge for the title.

The coming days will reveal how well the team gels and responds to the high-pressure environment of international competition. Fans across Nigeria and the diaspora will no doubt be glued to their screens, cheering the boys in green and white.

Stay tuned to NaijaRush for all the latest updates, exclusive player interviews, match previews, and in-depth analysis as Nigeria begins its quest for Unity Cup glory once again.