Ahead of a monumental Africa Cup of Nations semifinal, passionate Nigerian supporters have turned to spiritual intervention, offering prayers and what they describe as 'sacrifices' for the success of the Super Eagles.
Spiritual Backing for a Historic Clash
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face the Atlas Lions of Morocco in the second semifinal of the 2025 AFCON on Wednesday, January 14. The high-stakes match will be played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with a place in the final against either Egypt or Senegal on the line.
Nigeria advanced to this stage after a convincing 2-0 victory over Algeria's Desert Foxes in the quarterfinal on January 10. Goals from star striker Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealed the win. Their opponents, Morocco, secured their semifinal berth by defeating Cameroon's Indomitable Lions by the same scoreline, with Brahim Diaz and Ismail Saibari finding the net.
Supporters Club President Reveals Spiritual Preparations
In an exclusive revelation, Prince Abayomi Ogunjimi, the National President of the Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC), disclosed the extraordinary measures taken to support the team. Ogunjimi stated that the group has offered 'sacrifices of prayers' for the nation ahead of the crucial encounter against the host country.
"Nigeria will be playing a very crucial match against the host Morocco, we have offered sacrifices of prayers for our great nation," Ogunjimi said. He emphasized the challenge ahead, acknowledging that playing the tournament hosts would be a tough nut to crack.
He further explained their mission, stating, "Our mission here in Morocco is to see the team succeed. Prayer is the master key, we are going to use our songs to bring down the wall of Jericho surrounding the players during the semifinal." Ogunjimi also expressed pride in the team's performance, noting it is the first time in a long while the Super Eagles have brought such joy to Nigerians in a major tournament.
Super Eagles' Impressive Run and Appeal for Support
The Nigerian team heads into the semifinal with an impeccable record. According to statistics from Sofa Score, the Super Eagles are the only team with a 100% winning record at the tournament. They have scored a formidable 14 goals while conceding only four. Individually, Victor Osimhen leads the charge with four goals, followed by winger Ademola Lookman with three.
Meanwhile, ANFASSC has issued an appeal for logistical and financial support from the Federal Government and well-meaning Nigerians. The group highlighted that support is critical for sustaining effective fan mobilization, transportation, accommodation, and musical coordination during matchdays. They also called for streamlined and accessible ticketing arrangements for Nigerian fans traveling to support the team.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has also entered the fray, sending a strongly worded message to Morocco, declaring that the end has come for the Atlas Lions' AFCON 2025 campaign. As the nation holds its breath, the blend of on-field prowess and off-field spiritual support sets the stage for an epic continental showdown.
