Ahead of a high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal, Nigerian football icon Segun Odegbami has issued a rousing call to the national team, emphasizing confidence as the key to victory.
Mathematical's Message of Belief
Former Super Eagles captain and legend Segun Odegbami has charged the current squad to play with unwavering self-belief as they prepare to face Algeria in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. The crucial match is scheduled for today, January 10, 2026.
In a viral video shared on social media platform X, the 73-year-old football great, popularly known as "Mathematical," stated that with the depth of talent available to Nigeria, the team should not be struggling against any continental opponent. Odegbami pointed to Nigeria's population, history, and large pool of quality players as reasons they should dominate.
"The match between Nigeria and Algeria is going to be about confidence and belief that you can do it," Odegbami declared. He urged the players to transform their individual skills into collective strength by embracing a champion's mentality.
History and High Stakes
The Super Eagles enter this knockout clash in formidable form, having won all four of their matches at the 35th edition of AFCON, scoring an impressive 12 goals in the process. This perfect record has fueled hopes of a fourth continental title, especially after the disappointment of failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Odegbami knows what it takes to win against Algeria on the biggest stage. He famously captained Nigeria to its first AFCON title in 1980, scoring twice in a 3-0 victory over the Desert Foxes in the final held in Lagos. That historic performance cemented his legacy as one of Nigeria's greatest, with 23 international goals making him the country's third all-time top scorer until recently surpassed by Victor Osimhen.
The Fine Margins of Knockout Football
The football legend also highlighted the narrow margins that often decide matches at this level of competition. He explained that victory can come from a moment of brilliance, luck, an opponent's error, or simply by playing superior football.
"When you play like that, you more often than not win, and you win deservedly because it is not by luck, it is not by chance, it is because you are good," Odegbami asserted.
His final piece of advice to the team was clear and direct: "They should play confidently, without fear and play like champions that they are." As the nation holds its breath, Odegbami's words serve as both a reminder of past glory and a battle cry for the present challenge in Marrakech.
