Nigeria Turn Pain Into Purpose as Super Eagles Target AFCON Redemption in Morocco
Nigeria head into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations carrying the weight of a bruising World Cup qualifying failure — and for Victor Osimhen and his teammates, redemption can only come one way: winning AFCON in Morocco.
For the first time since 1990, the Super Eagles have missed two consecutive World Cups, a setback that hit even harder after a dramatic qualifying run. Despite hammering Gabon 4-1 in the playoff semi-final — with Osimhen scoring twice — Nigeria fell to DR Congo on penalties and saw their hopes collapse.
Head coach Eric Chelle says the disappointment must fuel their response.
“Our players are hurting. The only cure is to make our opponents feel that pain,” he said.
Osimhen echoed the frustration:
“Nigerians call us a golden generation, but we’ve failed twice. If we’re really that good, it’s time to prove it — starting with winning AFCON.”
Group C: Nigeria Back in Fes With a Point to Prove
Nigeria will play all their group matches in Fes, where they face:
- Tunisia
- Tanzania
- Uganda
The heavyweight clash is the 27 December showdown with Tunisia, likely to decide the top spot. Nigeria hold the historical edge, winning three of their six previous AFCON meetings.
Chelle expects a tough group:
- Tunisia “had a strong year and are tactically disciplined.”
- Uganda “keep improving under Paul Put.”
- Tanzania “bring energy and play in a competitive domestic league.”
Pressure? Massive.
“With 230 million Nigerians, there are 230 million coaches,” Chelle joked, admitting he has avoided social media to stay focused.
Stacked Attack, High Expectations
Nigeria come loaded with firepower. Alongside Osimhen, Chelle can call on:
- Ademola Lookman (African Player of the Year 2024)
- Victor Boniface
- Samuel Chukwueze
- Tolu Arokodare
- Moses Simon
- Chidera Ejuke
Tunisia’s coach Samy Trabelsi calls Nigeria a “continental powerhouse,” though he insists his side aims for at least the semifinals after an excellent World Cup qualifying campaign.
Uganda return to AFCON after missing two editions, while Tanzania — now under Miguel Gamondi — recall captain Mbwana Samatta as they chase a first-ever AFCON win after three winless tournaments.
