Bring on AFCON 2027 — Super Eagles star thirsts for more after unfortunate end to tournament in Morocco

Super Eagles defender Ryan Alebiosu reflected on the injury which hampered his maiden international tournament, stating that he looked forward to the next one.

Alebiosu suffered a deep cut to his right leg during Nigeria’s 3–1 group-stage win over Uganda at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The injury occurred in the first half after a heavy collision that saw him pushed into the advertising boards, leaving him with a large open wound.

Despite the severity, Alebiosu remarkably completed the full 90 minutes, but post-match assessments confirmed the cut was serious enough to put his availability for the rest of the tournament in doubt. 

The injury ultimately cut short his AFCON campaign, ruling him out of further participation and denying him the chance to build on a highly impressive debut performance.

In an interview with Punch, he assessed his performance at the AFCON and how he approached it. He also discussed his unfortunate injury and how it dampened his momentum.

“It’s a different platform, so it was all about staying consistent as I do in my club football,” he said. “I had an injury as well, which affected my tournament, but it was a good chance for me to get on the team.

“It’s a bit frustrating; I wanted to show what I could do at my first AFCON. When it happened, the team came together and helped me a lot, and watching the team win games really boosted my morale. 

“I was out for some weeks. I was glad I was able to return before the end of the tournament, but I couldn’t get more minutes. Hopefully, the next chance I get, I will get more of a chance in the squad. Injuries happen, but next AFCON, I will work harder to get there.

It was Alebiosu’s first international tournament, and he expressed joy to have been part of it. However, he is not satisfied with his level of participation and looks forward to the next one.

“The competition is brilliant, and obviously, I have seen from other AFCONs how things have been, so 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. 

“It’s been a joy to come here and obviously be a part of this great team with all my brothers. 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. It was good playing with good players; playing with defenders like (Calvin) Bassey was great. I was blessed. Outside of football, it’s wonderful; it was brilliant to be back in the African roots and amazing to enjoy the culture.”

Alebiosu will not have to wait too long, however, as the next AFCON is only 18 months away. The Blackburn Rovers man will have to maintain a high level, however, as Ola Aina’s return might mean there is only one slot left for either him or Bright Osayi-Samuel.