Nigeria To Bounce Back As They Eye AFCON Glory

Super Eagles to Bounce Back As It Eye AFCON Glory

Agboola Victor December 11, 2025 2 minutes read

Nigeria Super Eagles are looking to bounce back after failing to qualify for the World Cup for a second consecutive time ever since 1990.

Despite finishing second in Group C behind South Africa, Nigeria earned a play-off spot as one of the best runners-up. They thrashed Gabon 4-1 in the semi-finals, with star striker Victor Osimhen scoring twice, but were eliminated on penalties by the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Eric Chelle said, “Our players are suffering, and we must find a cure. Instead of hurting, we must hurt our opponents.” Osimhen added, “If we are a golden generation, how come we keep failing? Now we have to return to Morocco and win the Cup of Nations.”

Nigeria, top seeds in Group C, will face Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda, playing all first-round matches in Fes.

The December 27 clash with Tunisia is expected to decide the group winner. Chelle highlighted the challenge ahead, citing improvements in Uganda and Tanzania and praising Tunisia’s strong performances.

Chelle also faces the task of selecting a strike force for Nigeria team, including Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare, Moses Simon, Adams Akor, and Chidera Ejuke.

Tunisia coach Samy Trabelsi called Nigeria “a continental powerhouse” but aims for at least a semi-final finish.