Former Nigeria international Peter Nieketen has voiced strong concerns over the 54-man provisional squad released for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, warning that the Super Eagles risk making the same old mistakes that have led to repeated failures in recent years.
With the tournament kicking off on 21 December 2025, Nieketen questioned the logic behind inviting such a large number of players with so little time remaining, especially if most of them will not genuinely be given a chance to fight for a place.
“I don’t understand it. If these players will not compete, then why invite 54?” he asked.
Nieketen noted that a closer look at the list shows the same group of players who have been in and out of the national team for years — a cycle he believes has prevented Nigeria from progressing.
“It’s mostly familiar faces. The same names. The same rotation. How do we expect different results?” he said.
The former midfielder stressed that time is running out, and the coaching crew must immediately streamline the squad, identify the most suitable options, and begin focused tactical preparation.
“Time is short. Very short. This is not when you start experimenting with 54 names,” he warned.
Nieketen believes Nigeria’s football problems lie in poor planning, emotional decision-making, and a lack of long-term strategy — issues he fears are resurfacing again ahead of AFCON in Morocco.
He urged fans to remain supportive but realistic, warning that success requires more than hope.
“Nigerian fans should keep hoping and praying, but we must also face reality. Without proper preparation, you can’t expect magic,” he said.
Nieketen also highlighted that inviting a bloated squad can demoralize players who know they have little chance of making the final cut.
“When you invite too many players, some already know they are just there to fill numbers. That is not how serious teams operate,” he added.
He concluded with a strong message to the technical crew:
“If Nigeria wants to avoid another disappointment, we must stop repeating these old habits. It’s time for discipline, clarity, and serious planning.”
