THE high-profile international friendly between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Egypt’s Pharaohs—initially scheduled for December 14 has now been moved to December 16, following a late directive from FIFA that reshaped the international release timeline for African players.
News Point Nigeria Sports reports that the Egyptian Football Association confirmed the change on Friday night through its vice president, Khaled El-Darandaly, according to reports from Ahram.
The adjustment stems from FIFA’s newly issued international release regulation, which permits clubs—particularly in Europe—to hold onto African players until December 15, only six days before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off on December 21.
Both Nigeria and Egypt were forced to shift their plans, with the original date becoming unworkable as neither side would have access to key players.
For Egypt, this primarily affects the arrivals of star forward Mohamed Salah, as well as Omar Marmoush and other Europe-based talents. Nigeria faces a similar setback, with the bulk of head coach Eric Chelle’s core squad also tied to European clubs who will not release players earlier than December 15.
In response, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has reportedly approved a revised training blueprint. The Super Eagles camp will now officially open on December 14, giving Chelle only a thin preparation window before AFCON begins.
This compressed timeline heightens Nigeria’s concerns, coming at a time when the team is managing a string of setbacks, including: Ola Aina – injury, Taiwo Awoniyi – injury, Benjamin Fredrick – injury, Felix Agu – injury and Captain William Troost-Ekong’s sudden international retirement on Thursday
The situation raises fresh questions about squad depth and cohesion as Nigeria seeks a fourth continental title.
With Cairo now deemed unfeasible due to logistical constraints and late player arrivals, both federations are considering shifting the match to Morocco, which has emerged as a neutral and flexible option.
A final decision is expected in the coming days as both nations reassess travel and preparation plans.
As both teams brace for the tournament: Egypt, chasing their first AFCON title since 2010, head into Group B alongside South Africa, Angola and Zimbabwe.
Nigeria, with titles in 1980, 1994 and 2013, will compete in Group C, where they face Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania.
The friendly despite its logistical complications remains a crucial preparatory match for both sides, who are eager to evaluate their squads in one final test before the continental showdown begins.
