The Super Eagles of Nigeria are turning their full attention to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco with Victor Osimhen leading the charge for redemption after reeling from another failed attempt to qualify for the FIFA World Cup,
For the first time since 1990, Nigeria have missed back-to-back World Cups, a bitter pill that has left players, coaches and fans deeply frustrated. The Eagles finished second behind South Africa in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and slipped into the playoffs as one of the best runners-up.
A convincing 4–1 win over Gabon in the playoff semi-final where Osimhen scored twice raised hopes of qualification. But a painful penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo ended Nigeria’s dream yet again.
Head coach Eric Chelle, who hails from Ivory Coast, didn’t hide his disappointment.
“Our players are suffering. But instead of hurting, we must make our opponents suffer on the pitch,” he said.
Osimhen, who plies his trade in Turkey, echoed the frustration felt across the country.
“Nigerians call us a golden generation, but we’ve now missed two World Cups in a row. If we’re truly that good, we must prove it. We have to return to Morocco and win the AFCON,” he said.
He added that the squad is filled with top talents players who are playing for elite European clubs and it’s time to turn that quality into major trophies.
Nigeria are drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda. As top seeds, the Eagles will play all their group matches in Fes, giving them some stability.
The standout fixture is their December 27 meeting with Tunisia, a clash likely to determine the group winner. Historically, Nigeria have edged past Tunisia in AFCON ties, winning three out of six previous meetings.
“Tunisia have had a fantastic year,” he said, referencing their recent impressive friendly performance against Brazil. “Uganda are improving under Paul Put, and many Tanzanian players come from one of Africa’s strongest leagues.”
He also noted the intense scrutiny that comes with managing Nigeria.
“I’m under enormous pressure. There are about 230 million Nigerians and each one is a national coach,” he joked, admitting he has avoided social media to stay focused.
One of Chelle’s biggest challenges at the tournament will be choosing his front line. Beyond Osimhen, the squad has an enviable list of attackers: African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Tolu Arokodare, Adams Akor, and Chidera Ejuke.
On the other side, Tunisia’s coach Samy Trabelsi acknowledges Nigeria’s strength but insists his team won’t be intimidated.
“Nigeria are a continental powerhouse, but anything is possible at the AFCON. Our target is at least the semifinals,” he said.
Tunisia were poor during AFCON qualifiers but excelled in their World Cup campaign, winning nine matches, drawing once, and keeping ten clean sheets.
Uganda return after missing the last two editions and have promised to play fearless football. Tanzania have shaken things up with a late coaching change, bringing in Argentine Miguel Gamondi. Striker Mbwana Samatta has also earned a recall after finding form in France.
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