Nigeria’s Super Eagles, led by star forward Victor Osimhen, are determined to bounce back after another painful failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup — and their quickest path to redemption is clear: win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
For the first time since 1990, Nigeria have missed out on two consecutive World Cups. After finishing second behind South Africa in Group C, they got a lifeline as one of the best runners-up. But after a dominant 4–1 victory over Gabon in the play-offs semi-final — with Osimhen scoring twice — the team were knocked out by DR Congo on penalties in the decisive game.
Head coach Eric Chelle, formerly in charge of Mali, said the team is hurting and must respond with strength.
“Our players are suffering, and we must find a cure. Instead of hurting, we must hurt our opponents,” he said.
Osimhen echoed the frustration, questioning the “golden generation” label often placed on the team.
“Nigerians keep telling us we are a golden generation. But we have failed twice to qualify for the World Cup. If we are that good, why do we keep failing? Now we must go back to Morocco and win the Cup of Nations.”
He added that the squad, filled with top European-based talent, must turn its quality into trophies.
Favourable Group, High Expectations
Nigeria are drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda. As top seeds, the Super Eagles will play all their group matches in Fes, giving them a location advantage. The December 27 clash against Tunisia is expected to determine the top spot. Historically, both nations have met six times at the AFCON, with Nigeria winning three, drawing two, and losing once.
Chelle praised Tunisia’s form, noting their strong performances, including a surprise draw against Brazil in a recent friendly.
He also warned against underestimating Uganda and Tanzania, describing Uganda as “consistently improving” under Belgian coach Paul Put, while Tanzania boasts one of Africa’s strongest local leagues.
The coach admitted the pressure is intense:
“With about 230 million Nigerians, that means 230 million national coaches. I’ve stayed off social media to avoid distractions and remain focused.”
A Strike Force Overflowing With Talent
Choosing attackers will be one of Chelle’s toughest decisions. Nigeria’s frontline includes Osimhen, reigning African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Tolu Arokodare, Adams Akor, and Chidera Ejuke.
Tunisia’s coach Samy Trabelsi acknowledged Nigeria’s strength, calling them a “continental powerhouse,” but insisted his team aims for at least a semi-final finish.
Tunisia struggled in the AFCON qualifiers but were impressive in World Cup qualifiers — winning nine matches, drawing one, and keeping 10 clean sheets.
Meanwhile, Uganda return to the AFCON after missing two editions, with coach Paul Put promising a fearless team. Tanzania also made a late coaching switch, appointing Argentine Miguel Gamondi and recalling star striker Mbwana Samatta as they search for their first-ever AFCON win after three unsuccessful attempts.
