CAF approved an expanded 28-player squad for AFCON 2025 in Morocco, a move designed to help national teams like Nigeria manage injuries and tactical needs during the December 21 to January 18 tournament.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced and approved an increase in the maximum squad limit for next month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025), according to a report from Brila.
Participating nations competing in the tournament in Morocco will now have the option to register up to 27 players in their final squad, up from the previous limit of 23.
This change aligns African football with global practices, following FIFA’s expansion of World Cup squads to 26 and UEFA’s allowance of 26-man squads at Euro 2024.
CAF explained in its official communication that the decision was driven by a desire to provide coaches with “greater flexibility, particularly when dealing with injuries, suspensions or specific tactical needs during the tournament.”
The move is aimed at easing the burden of injuries and the congested fixture schedule.
However, the updated regulations specify that only 23 players will fall under CAF’s logistical responsibility, covering travel, accommodation, and other competition-related costs. The remaining four players must be sponsored by each nation’s football federation.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is expected to submit a 55-man provisional list for the Super Eagles. Teams have until December 11, 2025, to submit their final squad lists.
All clubs worldwide are mandated by FIFA to release players for AFCON duty by December 8, 2025. The Super Eagles’ training camp is scheduled to open on the same day, with a warm-up friendly against Egypt set for December 14.
The AFCON 2025 tournament will run from December 21 to January 18.