AFCON 2025 - Iwobi, Bassey and Chukwueze claim they have gained experience since the last competition

After finishing as runners-up in the previous tournament and struggling in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, Nigeria is eager to reclaim their status as a dominant force in African football.

They arrive in Morocco and will begin in Group C, where they will face Tanzania on December 23, followed by a match against Tunisia on December 27 and the final group game against Uganda on December 30.

Manager Eric Chelle will be looking for a strong start from his squad as they take on Tanzania at the Fez Stadium, especially as the team aims to bounce back from a friendly defeat to Egypt at the Cairo International Stadium.

In an exclusive interview with Fulham TV, the three players discussed their personal development, the squad's growing maturity, and a collective drive to go one step further this time.

Defender Calvin Bassey reflected on the team's progress since the last AFCON, noting the experience gained by the players. "Yeah, 100%. I think at the last AFCON I was 23. I have matured, and many of the team members have matured as well. 

“We have gained a lot of experience," Bassey stated. "It would be good for the team. And Alex has different roles now; he is becoming more of a leader."

Midfielder Alex Iwobi echoed this sentiment, emphasising the squad's ambition to build on their previous performance. 

"Basically, what he is trying to say is that anywhere you go, you always want to improve," Iwobi explained. "So, the only way we can improve is by winning it."

Winger Samuel Chukwueze added a touch of humour while expressing his belief in the team's potential. "The first one was third place, the second one was the Round of 16, and the third one was second. 

“I hope the fourth one... Calvin Bassey will help us. If he decides to pass the ball to me, I think we will win it," he joked.