Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has arrived at the team’s base in Cairo, Egypt, becoming the latest player to report for duty as Nigeria step up preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The national team’s camp officially swung into action on Sunday, December 14, at the Renaissance Hotels in Cairo, providing a structured setting for the early phase of Nigeria’s Afcon build-up.

Members of the coaching crew and backroom staff had taken their places earlier, ensuring that groundwork was laid ahead of the players’ arrival.

Francis Uzoho was the first member of the playing squad to check in, arriving in Cairo shortly after 2:00am local time on Sunday morning.

Nwabali’s arrival now adds momentum to the gradual assembly of the Super Eagles squad, with more players expected to join camp in the coming days.

Nigeria head into the tournament as three-time Africa Cup of Nations winners and will be seeking to add a fourth title to their continental honours.

The Super Eagles have been placed in Group C, where they are set to compete against Tunisia, Tanzania and Uganda for a place in the knockout rounds.

As part of their final tune-up, the Super Eagles are scheduled to take on Egypt in an international friendly on Tuesday.

The fixture will form part of Nigeria’s concluding preparations before the squad makes the journey to Morocco, hosts of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Eric Chelle-led team will begin their Afcon 2025 campaign on Tuesday, December 23, when they face Tanzania in their opening group fixture.

Wale Adejumo