A former Nigerian international has laid out a clear path to glory for the Super Eagles at the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Dimeji Lawal, the ex-Real Madrid and Hellenic star, emphasized that a strong start is non-negotiable for the three-time champions.
The Crucial Opening Match Against Tanzania
Dimeji Lawal, who is also the former Chairman of Shooting Stars SC, stated that Nigeria must secure a victory against Tanzania in their opening Group C match to set the right tone for the tournament. Speaking to Complete Sports, Lawal explained that a win over the Taifa Stars on December 23, 2025, is essential for building team confidence ahead of tougher fixtures.
"It is very important for the Super Eagles to pick up the three points in their opening game against Tanzania," Lawal said. "This will help boost the players’ confidence ahead of their second group game against Tunisia." He expressed confidence in the squad selected by coach Eric Chelle, expecting them to overcome the East African side.
Nigeria's Squad and Preparations Under Scrutiny
The Super Eagles, who arrived in Morocco on Thursday, December 18, are aiming for a fourth continental title. However, their preparation has been mixed. The team suffered a 2-1 defeat to Egypt in a friendly at Cairo International Stadium on Tuesday, December 16.
Coach Eric Chelle, making his second consecutive AFCON appearance with Nigeria after previously leading Mali to the 2023 quarterfinals, has faced challenges. Since taking over, his record includes losses to DR Congo in World Cup playoffs and the recent friendly against Egypt.
The final 28-man squad for the tournament shows significant changes. The team will be without experienced players like former captain Ahmed Musa, defender William Troost-Ekong, Ola Aina, Felix Agu, and goalkeeper Maduka Okoye. Chelle has injected new blood, calling up five fresh invitees: Ryan Alebiosu, Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Usman Muhammed, Salim Fago Lawal, and Tochukwu Nnadi.
Confidence and Criticism Ahead of the Tournament
Despite the preparatory setbacks, optimism remains high in some quarters. Lawal believes the current squad has what it takes to win the title. "Looking at the players at the disposal of coach Eric Chelle, I expect the Super Eagles to overcome Tanzania," he affirmed.
This sentiment is echoed by Nigerian sports journalist Godwin Wambebe. In an exclusive chat with Legit.ng, Wambebe claimed Nigeria remains the continent's best team on paper. He urged a dominant display in the opener, stating that a victory by three goals or more would send a powerful message to other contenders.
"Nigeria can win the 2025 AFCON with the current team, all they have to do is beat Tanzania mercilessly," Wambebe said. He also pinpointed Victor Osimhen as the squad's "joker," emphasizing the need for the team to supply him adequately to prevent overexertion.
However, not all voices are full of praise. Chelsea legend John Mikel Obi has publicly criticized the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for what he deems inadequate preparation for the tournament. The former Super Eagles captain expressed disappointment at the lack of concrete plans following Nigeria's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As the Super Eagles gear up for their first match in a group that also includes Tunisia and Uganda, the message from experts is clear: start strong against Tanzania, and the dream of a fourth AFCON title becomes a tangible possibility.
