AFCON 2025
Libyan powerhouse Al-Ittihad SC have completed the signing of Nigerian midfielder Onuche Ogbelu from Tunisian champions Esperance Sportive de Tunis.
The 23-year-old has signed a three-year contract with the Tripoli-based club, becoming Al-Ittihad’s fifth acquisition of the summer transfer window as they continue to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.
Ogbelu joins a growing list of high-profile arrivals at the club, alongside Thembinkosi Lorch, Adem Alilet, Stephane Aziz Ki, Ahmad Benali, and Anatole Abang.
The move brings an end to a productive spell at Esperance, where the Nigerian established himself as one of the club’s most dependable midfielders. Since arriving from NPFL side Nasarawa United in 2023, Ogbelu made 54 league appearances for the Tunisian giants and scored two goals.
The former Flying Eagles star also gained international recognition during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, where his composed displays in midfield earned widespread praise. Known for his ability to evade pressure, dictate play, and distribute the ball effectively, Ogbelu became a key figure in Esperance’s midfield setup.
A product of Abuja-based Fosla Academy, the midfielder’s rapid rise has been one of Nigerian football’s notable success stories in recent years. His performances at club level followed an impressive outing with Nigeria’s U-20 national team at the 2023 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations in Egypt.
Ogbelu featured in all six matches as the Flying Eagles secured a third-place finish at the tournament, underlining his importance to the team. His consistent displays later earned him an invitation to train with the Super Eagles ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
With his move to Al-Ittihad now confirmed, Ogbelu begins a new chapter in Libya, where he will be expected to play a leading role in the club’s domestic and continental ambitions.
