Nigeria take on Egypt in a practice match at the Cairo International Stadium on Tuesday evening as both teams fine-tune preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Although stripped of full international status, the fixture remains a meaningful exercise for two of Africa’s most successful footballing nations.
For Nigeria, it represents a compressed and imperfect build-up, shaped by FIFA regulations that allowed European clubs to delay the release of African players ahead of the tournament.
The Super Eagles had initially planned two warm-up matches, but those plans were disrupted, leaving this encounter potentially their only outing before the AFCON begins on Sunday, December 21.
With Nigeria’s camp opening on Sunday, December 14, head coach Eric Chelle has had just one full day, Monday, to work with his squad.
Several players are expected to arrive only hours before kick-off, while others may not feature at all. As a result, intensity is likely to be managed carefully. Still, pride, rivalry and the need for tactical clarity ensure the contest will be keenly contested.
Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!
Nigeria vs Egypt: Head-to-head
Nigeria hold a historical edge over Egypt, having won nine of their 19 previous meetings, with five draws and five defeats.
The Super Eagles have also enjoyed recent success against the Pharaohs, winning the last two encounters by identical one-goal margins. Paul Onuachu scored the winner in a 2019 friendly, while Kelechi Iheanacho’s strike secured a crucial group-stage victory at the 2021 AFCON.
Photo by Nsidibe Akpan Copyright: xxIMAGO
After high-scoring early meetings, clashes between the two sides have evolved into tightly fought affairs. Only one of their last ten meetings has produced more than two goals, a trend that stretches back to 1984 and highlights the tactical discipline that now defines this fixture.
Team news
Eric Chelle has named a 28-man squad for the AFCON, made up of three goalkeepers, eight defenders, eight midfielders and nine attackers.
Goalkeepers Francis Uzoho and Stanley Nwabali have already reported to camp, while several Europe-based players completed club duties over the weekend and are expected to arrive before Tuesday. Victor Osimhen, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze and Calvin Bassey are among those due in Cairo, with Bassey and Osimhen both scoring in recent club wins.
Others, including Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke, also arrive in good form, while Paul Onuachu and Wilfred Ndidi will be free of club commitments on Sunday evening. Most of the squad should be available by Monday, although Zaidu Sanusi is expected to report on matchday after Porto’s Monday night fixture.
With player fatigue a concern, Chelle is likely to rotate heavily. Uzoho could start in goal if Nwabali’s injury requires caution, while fringe and newly invited players may be prioritised.
Ryan Alebiosu is a candidate for an unofficial debut at right-back, with Tochukwu Nnadi and Ebenezer Akinsanmiro possible starters in midfield. Osimhen could be rested, opening opportunities for Adams, Onuachu or teenager Fago Lawal in attack.
Egypt, meanwhile, arrive better prepared. Head coach Hossam Hassan has had his squad in camp for weeks and has named a balanced 28-man group. Mohamed Salah, who captains the side, is available after providing an assist for Liverpool at the weekend.
Egypt boast depth across the pitch, with Mostafa Mohamed leading the line and creative support from players such as Mahmoud Trezeguet, Ahmed Sayed Zizo and Omar Marmoush. Their midfield, in particular, offers tactical flexibility, while experienced goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy anchors a settled defence.
Match details
- Game: Nigeria vs Egypt
- Competition: Friendly match in preparation for the 2025 AFCON
- Venue: Cairo International Stadium
- Date: Tuesday, December 16
- Kick-off: 7pm (Nigerian time)
Match prediction
With more time on the training ground and greater squad continuity, Egypt are expected to have the edge. Nigeria’s rotation and late arrivals may limit cohesion, making a narrow 2-1 victory for the Pharaohs the most likely outcome.
