The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau, has delivered a resounding vote of confidence and a clear objective to the national team as they gear up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Healing World Cup Pain with AFCON Glory
In a strong statement, Gusau articulated that winning the 2025 AFCON title would significantly relieve the pain felt across the nation after the Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He emphasized that the current squad, boasting world-class talents like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon, deserves to etch their names in history with a major trophy.
"The FIFA World Cup miss still hurts, but if the team is able to win the Africa Cup of Nations, it will go a long way to assuaging the feelings of our fans at home and in the diaspora," Gusau stated, as reported by the NFF. "It will also be good for the present generation of Super Eagles as they will have at least one major triumph to their name."
Confidence in Coach Chelle and Team Preparation
The football body has expressed unwavering faith in the abilities of head coach Eric Chelle, who was appointed after Augustine Eguavoen secured the team's qualification for the 35th edition of the continental showpiece. Under Chelle's guidance, the three-time AFCON champions have recorded a mixed run of form.
Gusau assured that the Federation is working diligently to support the team, stating, "It has not been easy for us as a Federation, but we have to continue to appreciate and show that we value the contribution of the players and officials. I have confidence in the coaches and the players that we have to turn the present gloom around and make Nigeria proud in Morocco."
The Road Ahead in Morocco
Nigeria has been drawn into a challenging Group C alongside Tanzania, Tunisia, and Egypt. Their campaign kicks off against the Taifa Stars of Tanzania on Tuesday, December 23, in the city of Fes. This grouping sets the stage for a highly competitive start to their quest for a fourth AFCON crown.
The team's preparation included an international friendly organized by the NFF in collaboration with the Egyptian Football Association on December 16. The Super Eagles will be looking to improve on their runner-up finish at the 2023 edition, where they lost 2-1 to hosts Ivory Coast in the final.
As the nation rallies behind the team, the message from the top is clear: the sole objective is to bring the trophy home and restore pride to Nigerian football.
