Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu reflected on his AFCON 2025 bronze medal with Nigeria.
Nigerian international Ryan Alebiosu has described the bronze medal he won with the Super Eagles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco as an achievement he will “cherish forever,” despite his tournament being cut short by injury.
The 24-year-old Blackburn Rovers defender made his senior international debut during Nigeria’s 3–1 victory over Uganda in the group stage.
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‘The team helped me a lot’ - Super Eagles newbie reveals injury frustration in his first AFCON
Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu has opened up about the frustration of having his first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with Nigeria's Super Eagles disrupted by injury.
However, an injury sustained in that match ruled him out of the remainder of the competition, limiting his AFCON involvement to just one appearance.
What Alebiosu said
Speaking to Punch, Alebiosu admitted the injury was frustrating but said the overall experience has fueled his desire to return to the tournament and prove himself.
12:24 - 25.01.2026
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“The competition is brilliant. To be a part of this has obviously been a motivation to come back to the next AFCON and actually prove myself next time around,” he said.
The Super Eagles entered the tournament with hopes of lifting the trophy but eventually settled for third place after missing out on a spot in the final.
10:47 - 25.01.2026
Former Lazio midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has called on Italian clubs to improve their player management, citing Atalanta's recent refusal to sell Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman as a key example.
While disappointed not to go all the way, Alebiosu said the bronze medal still holds immense personal value.
He added, “It’s been a joy to come here and obviously be a part of this great team with all my brothers.
23:34 - 24.01.2026
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“Obviously, we came in wanting to win the tournament, and not making the final was a bit disappointing, but I am happy with the bronze. It’s my first AFCON, my first international medal, and I will cherish it forever.”
AFCON 2025