Francis Uzoho has described his return to the Super Eagles as both emotional and deeply satisfying as Nigeria prepare for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The goalkeeper has been named in Eric Chelle’s final 28-man squad for the tournament, making the cut among three goalkeepers selected by the head coach. Chelle’s list features eight defenders, eight midfielders and nine forwards, with five new players earning their first invitations.
Francis Uzoho’s last appearance for the national team came in March 2024 during a friendly against Ghana. After spending more than a year away from the setup, the 26-year-old admitted that being back with the team has reminded him of the strong bond within the squad.
“I missed the boys. I missed the vibe in the camp because we’ve been together for quite a long time,” Uzoho said. “The most noticeable thing I missed was being around the boys and all of us coming together through different challenges. We check up on each other. I have colleagues I’m closer to, but generally I reach out to the boys.”
The former Golden Eaglets star said receiving the invitation was a moment of relief and happiness, adding that representing Nigeria remains the highest honour of his career.
“I was filled with joy that I can’t really express right now. It was a relief knowing that I’m coming back to be with the boys, to have that same feeling we had before and to represent Nigeria, which is the most important thing,” he said. “Anyone called up to the national team is ready. If you’re not ready, you won’t be called up.
“I believe the technical crew and the scouts know what they’re doing. When they invite someone, it’s because they believe the player is ready to represent the country. So, I am ready, and if the time comes and the country needs me, I will be prepared.”
Uzoho also dismissed any suggestion of tension among the goalkeepers, insisting that his relationship with current first-choice Stanley Nwabali is built on trust and mutual support.
“I’m close to everyone, and Stanley is my brother,” he said. “When he came in, we were all together. We helped each other, I helped him and he helped me. He’s a good guy, and I have a very close relationship with him. Maybe people outside don’t see it, but personally, I’m good with him.”
Nigeria will compete in Group C at the tournament, where they are set to face Tunisia, Tanzania and Uganda. The Super Eagles begin their campaign against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars on December 23, before taking on Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles on December 27 and Uganda’s Cranes on December 30.
After finishing runners-up at the last Africa Cup of Nations following a 2-1 loss to hosts Ivory Coast, Nigeria will head to Morocco determined to claim a fourth continental title, having previously lifted the trophy in 1980, 1994 and 2013.
