Nigeria enters the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco seeking redemption after another disappointing failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. The setback has deepened frustration among fans and players, leaving the Super Eagles determined to shift the narrative.
Victor Osimhen, who scored twice in the qualifying play-off win over Gabon, has emerged as the emotional centre of the team. The Turkey-based striker expressed disbelief that a group widely labelled a “golden generation” has now missed two successive World Cups.
“Nigerians keep telling us we are a golden generation,” Osimhen said. “But we have now failed twice in succession to qualify for the World Cup. If we are that good, how come we keep failing?”
Nigeria’s journey began with hope as they finished runners-up to South Africa in Group C, earning another chance through the playoff route. They delivered an impressive 4-1 victory against Gabon in Morocco, only to fall in heartbreaking fashion to the Democratic Republic of Congo on penalties.
The failure marked the first time since 1990 that Nigeria have missed two consecutive World Cups. This unprecedented outcome has sparked introspection within the squad and technical crew.
Head coach Eric Chelle, an Ivory Coast-born tactician, acknowledged the deep emotional toll on the players. “Our players are suffering and we must find a cure,” Chelle said.
“Instead of hurting, we must hurt our opponents.”
The 2025 AFCON has therefore become more than a competition—it is a mission of healing and reawakening. According to Osimhen, winning the tournament in Morocco is now a non-negotiable target for the squad.
“Now we have to return to Morocco and win the Cup of Nations,” he said. “Our squad is packed with great Nigerians playing for some of the best clubs in Europe. The time has come to translate that greatness into trophies.”
Nigeria have been placed in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania and Uganda. As top seeds, the Super Eagles will play all first-round matches in Fes, a logistical advantage that could aid their campaign.
Tunisia, ranked among Africa’s strongest teams, will likely pose the biggest challenge in the group stage. Their clash on December 27 is widely expected to determine the group winner. It will mark the seventh time the two former champions meet at the AFCON.
Nigeria holds a slight historical edge with three wins, one defeat and two draws in previous AFCON encounters with Tunisia. Analysts believe this rivalry adds an extra layer of urgency to the Super Eagles’ preparations.
Tanzania and Uganda, though considered underdogs, have shown steady improvement in continental football. Both teams are known for their physical style and disciplined structure, qualities that Nigeria must prepare to counter.
For many supporters, however, the AFCON is about more than restoring competitive credibility. It represents an opportunity to rebuild trust between the team and a nation disappointed by missed World Cup dreams.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is expected to provide full support to ensure the team arrives in Morocco in peak condition. Sports analysts note that stability, focus and unity will be crucial in avoiding the lapses that cost the team dearly during the qualifiers.
With Osimhen leading a squad filled with European-based talent, expectations remain high.
Fans hope that the pain of recent setbacks will fuel a transformative AFCON campaign.
For now, Nigeria’s path to redemption begins with discipline, resilience and belief—qualities the Super Eagles must rediscover quickly. As the countdown to Morocco continues, the message from within the camp is clear: this time, failure is not an option.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
