Super Eagles shot-stopper Stanley Nwabali is full of belief that Nigeria can go to Morocco next year and return as champions of Africa.
Nigeria already has three AFCON titles in history, and the Rivers United goalkeeper says the hunger within the current squad remains very strong. The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations offers another chance to make history, and Nwabali insists the team understands the expectations of millions of Nigerians who will be following every step of the journey.
The West Africans came heartbreakingly close to lifting the trophy earlier this year, before losing 2-1 to hosts Cote d’Ivoire in the final. That painful memory, Nwabali says, has now developed into motivation rather than discouragement.
Speaking on SuperSport TV, he said the Super Eagles are not travelling to participate as observers but to compete for another title.
“As a big nation, we are always expected to win, not just to participate,” Nwabali stated, explaining that the final experience has sharpened the mentality of the players.
“Playing the final last year, I feel this year we are going to win it. We know what it means to get close and lose, so we are more prepared, more experienced and more determined.”
Nigeria will compete in Group C at AFCON 2025 alongside Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles, the Taifa Stars of Tanzania and the Cranes of Uganda. All four teams will believe they have a realistic chance of advancing, but the Super Eagles are rated among the tournament favourites going into Morocco.
Nwabali also stressed the importance of starting strong and maintaining focus throughout the group phase, adding that the team must handle every game like a knockout match.
Nigeria will face Tanzania in their opening group fixture at the Complexe Sportif de Fes on Tuesday, December 23, before going on to battle Uganda and Tunisia in the remaining group matches.
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