The Nigeria Football Federation has issued an official statement following the arrival of the Super Eagles squad in Marrakech, Morocco, for their highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final clash.
Eagles Touch Down in Marrakech After Perfect Fes Run
The Nigerian contingent landed in Marrakech on Thursday, January 8, 2026, shifting base after playing all their previous matches in the city of Fes. The team enjoyed a flawless record at the Complexe Sportif de Fes, securing victories in all four games played there.
Their impressive run began with a 2-1 win over Tanzania, followed by a 3-2 triumph against Tunisia, and a 3-1 victory over Uganda in the group stage. The momentum continued into the Round of 16, where they delivered a commanding 4-0 win over Mozambique to book their place in the last eight.
NFF Confirms Readiness as Key Players Reconcile
In its statement, the NFF expressed confidence in the team's preparedness for the crucial encounter. The federation highlighted the determination of the attacking trio, which includes Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Akor Adams, to make an impact against the Desert Foxes.
Notably, the statement comes after visible tension between Osimhen and Lookman during the match against Mozambique. The NFF confirmed that the issue has now been fully resolved, with both players putting the incident behind them. Osimhen and Lookman, who have each scored three goals so far in the tournament, are now focused on adding to their tallies.
The team held their first training session in Marrakech immediately upon arrival, underscoring their serious approach to the upcoming challenge.
Chelle's Focus and the Road Ahead
Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has emphasized a game-by-game approach, dismissing external talks about Nigeria being tournament favourites. The former manager of Algerian side MC Oran is solely concentrated on the task at hand.
"I prefer to stay focused now on Marrakech and there is a game to play," Chelle told Foot Africa. "We have to stay focused on Marrakech, training sessions, and the next game."
The quarter-final match is scheduled for Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 5 PM Nigerian time at the Grande Stade de Marrakech. If Nigeria advances, they will remain in Rabat for the semi-final, where they would face the winner of the match between Cameroon and Morocco. A loss would see them travel to Casablanca for the third-place playoff.
Meanwhile, Algerian star Riyad Mahrez has sent a message to Nigeria, reminding them of their dramatic 2019 encounter and suggesting another tense finish could be in store.
