The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to embark on a mission of redemption at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. After the heartbreak of losing the 2023 final to Ivory Coast and the subsequent disappointment of failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the tournament represents a golden opportunity to restore pride and claim a fourth continental crown.
Nigeria's Path to Glory in Morocco
Drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda, the three-time champions will be expected to navigate the initial phase with confidence. The core of the team that came agonizingly close two years ago remains, now bolstered by experience and a burning desire to finish the job. Head coach Eric Chelle has named his final 28-man squad, with the spotlight firmly on a cadre of elite talents whose performances will be pivotal.
The narrative for Nigeria is clear: convert the potential of a gifted generation into tangible silverware. The blend of attacking flair and defensive resilience will be tested, but the squad possesses individuals capable of deciding games at the highest level.
Victor Osimhen: The Goal-Scoring Spearhead
All hopes will inevitably rest on the shoulders of Victor Osimhen, the team's undisputed talisman and one of the world's most feared strikers. The 26-year-old Galatasaray forward is the engine of Nigeria's attack, a fact underscored by his contribution of five goals in the team's last five matches, where Nigeria scored 12 times in total.
His absence during critical World Cup qualifiers was keenly felt, highlighting his irreplaceable role. For Nigeria to conquer Africa, Osimhen must lead from the front, translating his prolific club form onto the AFCON stage and inspiring those around him.
Ademola Lookman: The Creative Force
Fresh from being crowned the 2024 African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman carries the creative burden. The Atalanta winger was instrumental in Nigeria's run to the 2023 final, netting three goals and providing an assist.
After a period of adjustment at club level, Lookman has rediscovered his best form under new manager Raffaele Palladino, scoring three goals since November. His ability to unlock defences, provide width, and complement Osimhen's central threat will be a cornerstone of Nigeria's offensive strategy in Morocco.
Calvin Bassey: The Defensive Rock
With experienced defenders like William Troost-Ekong unavailable, Calvin Bassey's role becomes even more critical. The Fulham centre-back, who played every single minute of Nigeria's World Cup qualifying campaign, has matured into a defensive leader.
His reliability, physicality, and improving ball-playing ability make him the anchor of the backline. Bassey's recent goal for Fulham before joining the squad also hints at a threat from set-pieces, adding another dimension to his game.
Stanley Nwabali: The Safe Hands
Between the posts, Stanley Nwabali retains his status as Nigeria's first-choice goalkeeper. His impressive displays at the last AFCON cemented his place, and despite pre-tournament fitness concerns, his participation in a recent 2-1 friendly defeat to Egypt demonstrated his readiness.
In a tournament where moments decide destinies, a confident and commanding Nwabali can provide the stability and match-winning saves that often separate champions from contenders.
The Final Push for Continental Supremacy
The collective mission is unambiguous. As emphasized by former Real Madrid star Dimeji Lawal, making a strong statement from the outset—starting with a victory over Tanzania—is essential for building momentum. The blend of Osimhen's firepower, Lookman's ingenuity, Bassey's solidity, and Nwabali's security offers a balanced formula for success.
The Super Eagles have the talent; the 2025 AFCON in Morocco is the stage to prove they have the temperament and unity to once again be crowned kings of African football.
