Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has expressed strong confidence that Nigeria can lift the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy, backing the team to end their long wait for continental success.
Mikel, one of Nigeria’s most decorated footballers, shared his view on Tuesday via the X page of his The Obi One Podcast, saying he believes the current squad has the quality and mindset to win the tournament outright.
“For me, I think we are going all the way, and this time we are winning it,” Mikel said when asked how far Nigeria could go.
Early Momentum in Group C
Mikel’s comments came just ahead of Nigeria’s 2–1 win over Tanzania’s Taifa Stars in their opening Group C match at the Fez Stadium, a result that eased early pressure on the team and boosted confidence within the camp.
The Super Eagles now turn their attention to Tunisia on Saturday, before wrapping up the group stage against Uganda on Tuesday, as they chase a place in the knockout rounds.
Players Share the Belief
Team captain Wilfred Ndidi echoed Mikel’s optimism, noting that Nigeria’s runner-up finish at the previous AFCON has set a clear benchmark for the squad.
“We learnt a lot from the last AFCON, and reaching the final set the standard,” Ndidi said.
“Even though we didn’t win the trophy, we cannot go below that level. The expectations are high, and everyone understands that.”
Ndidi added that Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has further sharpened the team’s focus and determination to succeed on the continental stage.
Chasing a Fourth Title
Nigeria finished second at the 2023 AFCON, losing 2–1 in the final to the host nation under former coach José Peseiro. Now under the guidance of Franco-Malian coach Eric Chelle, the three-time champions are hoping to end a title drought that dates back to 2013.
The Super Eagles have previously won AFCON in 1980, 1994 and 2013, and with early backing from a former captain and growing belief within the squad, expectations are once again high as Nigeria pursue a fourth continental crown in Morocco.
Source: Africa Publicity
