Former Nigerian captain and football legend, Sunday Oliseh, has voiced strong confidence in the Super Eagles' ability to clinch the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title in Morocco. This comes as the three-time champions prepare for their quest to secure a fourth continental crown.
Oliseh's Optimism and Key Advice for Coach Chelle
Speaking on his Oliseh Insight Podcast, the ex-international outlined his belief that the team can go all the way in the tournament. Oliseh pinpointed a crucial piece of advice for head coach Eric Chelle, urging him to develop a stubborn streak to shield his decisions from external pressures.
"I am very optimistic that the Super Eagles can do well at this tournament," Oliseh stated. "The first thing the manager has to do is that he has to grow a little bit stubborn. He has to grow stubborn because it is no secret that people from outside will try to influence who plays, who doesn’t play. I think he has to grow stubborn and stand his ground and show personality that he is responsible."
Clarifying His Stance on Chelle's Appointment
Oliseh took a moment to clarify previous comments regarding the Malian tactician's role. He emphasized that his initial disappointment was not with Chelle's capabilities but with the decision to hire a foreign coach over qualified Nigerian candidates.
"Correction please, I didn’t criticise the coach, watch the clip again," Oliseh explained. "I was unhappy he was appointed instead of a qualified Nigerian, but so far he (Chelle) has done relatively well. Let’s call a spade a spade!"
The former Juventus and Borussia Dortmund midfielder acknowledged Chelle's promising start, citing the string of positive results since his appointment, despite the setback of failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Road to Redemption in Morocco
The Super Eagles head to the 2025 AFCON with the bitter memory of a final defeat fresh in their minds. In the last edition, Nigeria finished as runners-up after a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to hosts Ivory Coast. William Troost-Ekong had put the Eagles ahead, only for Franck Kessie and Sebastien Haller to complete a comeback for the Elephants.
Drawn in Group C alongside Tanzania, Uganda, and Tunisia, the Nigerian team will be aiming to navigate the group stages smoothly and build momentum for a deep run in the competition. The core of the squad, including stars like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, remains, bolstered by the experience of their recent final appearance.
In related team news, coach Eric Chelle has reportedly extended an invitation to Viktoria Plzen striker Rafiu Durosinmi for the tournament. The young forward is seen as a potential attacking option and possible support for Osimhen, following mixed performances from other strikers in the squad.
With the backing of legends like Sunday Oliseh and a determined squad, the Super Eagles will land in Morocco with a clear objective: to upgrade their silver medal from 2023 to the gold of African champions in 2025.
