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The Egypt vs Nigeria friendly has been postponed to 16 December after FIFA revised the release window for Africa-bound players ahead of AFCON 2025, Footynaija.com reports.
The match, initially scheduled for 14 December, was affected by a late FIFA directive allowing clubs to retain their African players until 15 December. This means stars such as Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush will only be available from that date.
Egypt, who are seeking their first AFCON crown since 2010, have already begun preparations under head coach Hossam Hassan. The Pharaohs named a 28-man provisional squad earlier this week as they look to navigate Group B, which includes South Africa, Angola and Zimbabwe.
Nigeria, however, face more significant disruption. The Super Eagles were due to open camp in Cairo on 10 December before travelling to Morocco, but the entire schedule has now been redrawn. The team will instead assemble on 14 December, giving them minimal time to train before the tournament begins.
Injuries to Ola Aina, Taiwo Awoniyi, Benjamin Fredrick and Felix Agu, alongside the shock retirement of captain William Troost-Ekong, have further dented Nigeria’s preparations. The venue of the rescheduled friendly is yet to be confirmed, though Morocco is now the favoured option.
Head coach Eric Chelle must finalise his 28-man squad from a provisional list of 55, while Nigeria prepare to tackle Group C opponents Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania.
Despite the setbacks, the Super Eagles remain hopeful of mounting a strong challenge for their fourth continental title.
