AFCON 2025: Former Super Eagles star urges Nigeria to finish top of Group despite qualification

Former Nigerian international Mutiu Adepoju has emphasised the importance of the Super Eagles finishing as group leaders at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Adepoju warned against complacency despite early qualification for the knockout stage.

Adepoju’s comments come in the wake of Nigeria’s entertaining 3–2 victory over Tunisia on Saturday night at the Complexe Sportif de Fès.

The result confirmed their place in the Round of 16 with one group match still to play.

The Super Eagles delivered an attacking display against the Carthage Eagles, with goals from Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi, and Ademola Lookman sealing the win for head coach Eric Chelle.

Tunisia responded through Montassar Taibi and Ali Abdi, but Nigeria held on to maintain their perfect run in the group.

The victory lifted Nigeria to the top of Group C, placing them in a strong position ahead of their final group fixture against Uganda’s Cranes on Tuesday.

While qualification is already assured, Adepoju believes the Super Eagles must resist the temptation to relax or overly rotate their squad in the final group match.

“For the last game against Uganda, the coach will make changes, but it is important not to disrupt the winning momentum,” Adepoju said during his post-match analysis on Afrosports.

The former midfielder, who was part of Nigeria’s victorious 1994 AFCON squad, stressed that consistency and confidence are vital as the tournament progresses into its decisive phase.

Beyond momentum, Adepoju highlighted the strategic advantages of finishing first in the group, including logistics and a competitive edge.

“It is also important for the Super Eagles to finish top of their group. That will ensure they stay in Fes for their last group game,” he added.

Remaining in the same host city could reduce travel fatigue and help the players maintain focus as they prepare for the Round of 16.