AFCON Countdown: Nigeria–Egypt Friendly Moved as FIFA Alters Player Release Dates

Egypt’s friendly match against Nigeria has been moved from 14 to 16 December after FIFA issued a new directive delaying the release of African players until 15 December. The Egyptian Football Association confirmed the change, with EFA Vice President Khaled El-Darandaly saying the update forced both countries to “adjust their final AFCON preparations…”.

Egypt had planned to face the Super Eagles as part of their build-up for AFCON 2025, which runs from 21 December to 18 January in Morocco. The new date became necessary because key players like Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush will only arrive after the updated release window. Nigeria is also affected, as most of Eric Chelle’s squad is based in Europe.

The shift has caused a bigger disruption for Nigeria. The Super Eagles were supposed to open camp in Cairo on 10 December, but that plan has collapsed. The NFF now expects the team to begin camp on 14 December, leaving Chelle just days to prepare. The match may also be moved to Morocco, as Cairo is no longer feasible.

Nigeria’s build-up has been hit by injuries to Ola Aina, Taiwo Awoniyi, Benjamin Fredrick and Felix Agu, while captain William Troost-Ekong’s retirement delivered another setback. Chelle must now trim his 55-man provisional squad to 28 as Nigeria target a fourth AFCON title.