)
As the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Cote d’Ivoire 2023 draws closer, the buzz around the tournament is palpable.
Among the several teams carrying the weight of expectation, the Super Eagles of Nigeria, with their remarkable history and recent form, are emerging as one of the favorites.
This sentiment is echoed by Nigeria's former captain, John Obi Mikel, who reminisces about lifting the prestigious title 10 years ago, ending a 19-year wait for Nigeria.
)
10:33 - 18.12.2023
'I saw immediately that he was not normal' — Mourinho on the first time he met Mikel Obi
Jose Mourinho disclosed he did not know Mikel John Obi before he joined Chelsea despite his fantastic performance at the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup
)
09:20 - 18.12.2023
'He's my boy' — Mourinho reveals special relationship with Mikel Obi
Jose Mourinho reveals his special relationship with Super Eagles legend Mikel John Obi as the reason he honoured his podcast invitation.
Mikel Obi speaks on Nigeria's AFCON chances
Speaking to CAFOnline, Mikel highlighted the Super Eagles' perennial status as one of the tournament's favourites. The three-time champions, known for their rich legacy in the competition with victories in 1980, 1994, and 2013, are once again poised to make a significant impact.
Nigerian football's recent achievements add to this optimistic outlook. The crowning of Victor Osimhen as the best African player in the men's category at the CAF Awards 2023, paralleled by Asisat Oshoala in the women's category, underlines the country's footballing prowess.
)
Mikel, reflecting on the evolution of football since Nigeria's last triumph, recognizes the differences between his generation and the current squad.
However, he believes in the potential and the unique brand of football played by this young Nigerian team. He hopes to see a performance that will not only make the nation proud but also restore Nigerian football to its rightful place.
Nigeria's journey in the tournament will begin on 14 January against Equatorial Guinea, followed by a critical match against the hosts, Cote d’Ivoire, on the 18th.
)
This game is a repeat of the 2013 edition's quarter-final, where Nigeria emerged victorious. They round off their Group A campaign against Guinea-Bissau on 22 January, a match that could be crucial in their quest for a fourth AFCON title.
This blend of historical success, current form, and emerging talent makes Nigeria a team to watch in the upcoming tournament.
With the Super Eagles' kickoff approaching, the anticipation and expectations are mounting, not just in Nigeria but among football fans across the continent.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)