Former Nigeria captain Sunday Oliseh has made a bold prediction for the national team, firmly backing the Super Eagles to clinch the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title in Morocco. This vote of confidence comes despite the recent sting of Nigeria's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a decisive playoff loss to DR Congo.
Oliseh's Optimism Amidst Adversity
The legendary midfielder, known for his forthright opinions on Nigerian football, believes the current squad has the necessary talent and, more importantly, the right mindset to conquer the continent. "Contrary to what many may think, I am very optimistic about our chances at the AFCON," Oliseh stated. He pinpointed the team's singular focus on the tournament as a primary reason for his belief.
Oliseh's endorsement serves as a significant morale boost at a time when public faith in the team's trophy-winning capabilities has been uncertain. He highlighted the unity within the camp under coach Eric Chelle as a critical factor that could propel Nigeria to the championship.
A Call for Focus and Resilience
However, Oliseh's optimism is not without acknowledgment of the hurdles facing the team. He referenced the criticism surrounding Chelle's 28-man squad selection and the off-field distractions plaguing the setup. These include issues like unpaid wages and the unexpected international retirement of veteran captain William Troost-Ekong, as reported by Sky Sports, which have added pressure.
In light of these challenges, Oliseh delivered a clear message to the Franco-Malian coach. He urged Chelle to remain "stubborn" and steadfast in his tactical approach, insulating the team from external noise. With world-class talents like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman at their disposal, Oliseh insists the Super Eagles possess the firepower to silence doubters and excel on Africa's biggest stage.
"The talent available to Nigeria remains the envy of the continent. With a focused mindset, the Super Eagles can show Africa what they are capable of," the former Borussia Dortmund star emphasized.
Navigating the Group Stage Path
Nigeria's quest for a fourth AFCON crown will begin in Group C, where they are slated to face Tanzania, Uganda, and Tunisia. Oliseh views this initial phase as an ideal platform for the team to build crucial momentum and establish their credentials as serious title contenders.
He stressed that strong, convincing performances in the group matches will be vital for setting a positive tone for the entire tournament and building the confidence needed for a deep run. Meanwhile, coach Eric Chelle has already set the bar high, publicly stating that the sole ambition for his team is to "conquer the continent" in Morocco.
As the countdown to AFCON 2025 continues, Oliseh's prediction adds a layer of expectation and hope for Nigerian fans, who are eager to see the Super Eagles turn their continental potential into tangible glory.
