The Super Eagles of Nigeria’s planned friendly against Egypt has been put on hold, with both federations now searching for a new date that suits their squads ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.
The match had been arranged for Sunday, 14 December at the Cairo International Stadium, but plans changed once FIFA moved the official release date for AFCON players. Many of Nigeria’s and Egypt’s Europe-based players are now allowed to arrive in camp as late as on December 15, which makes the original fixture impossible.
The Nigeria Football Federation and the Egyptian Football Association are reportedly in talks to reach a fresh date. The venue in Cairo is expected to remain the same, while both sides want to make sure their key players are available.
The game is part of the build-up to the AFCON finals, which will begin in Morocco on Sunday, December 21. Both teams are hoping for a solid test before the tournament starts.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle may have to adjust his midfield plans after injury concerns around one of his recent call-ups.
Reports that the provisional squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations features several new faces, including Ebenezer Akinsanmiro of Pisa. The 21-year-old has been one of the surprises in Serie A this season and is seen as an exciting option for Nigeria.
The midfielder, on loan from Inter Milan, missed the last international break due to a shoulder injury. He was expected to be sidelined for up to six weeks, with hopes he would be ready for Pisa’s match against Parma next Monday at the Arena Garibaldi.
Fresh details from Parma Live suggest he has not yet reached full fitness. As of Thursday, Akinsanmiro was still training separately from the main squad and has not been cleared to play. Reports state that he will require a late fitness test before any decision is made on his involvement against Parma.
His recovery timeline could affect Chelle’s final AFCON squad, with the coach waiting to see if the young midfielder can prove he is ready in time for the tournament.
