‘The midfield of Super Eagles was very poor’ — 1996 Dream Team star warns ahead of AFCON

Tijani Babangida has expressed confidence in Nigeria’s firepower ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations but insists that the Super Eagles’ chances will depend on whether the midfield can finally rise to the occasion.

The former Olympic gold medalist believes Nigeria have the attackers to dominate the tournament, but warns that poor midfield structure could undermine their campaign.

Speaking to Tribal Football, Babangida was full of admiration for Nigeria’s attacking options, noting the quality of Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, Umar Sadiq and Samuel Chukwueze.

“Having Osimhen, Boniface, Sadiq, Lookman, and Chukwueze appears to be very good on paper,” he said, stressing that the frontline has all the attributes to trouble any defence.

But he quickly turned his attention to a persistent issue that has haunted the Super Eagles in recent matches, the lack of creativity and cohesion in midfield. “If the midfielders are up to task, then these attackers will do well,” Babangida noted, recalling the friendly against Congo.

“I still remember the game against Congo, the midfield of Super Eagles was very poor and there was no supply of balls to the attackers from the second half.”

He criticised Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi for being forced into defensive roles, while fullbacks spent more time defending than supporting attacks.

Babangida believes the solution lies in rebuilding a more dynamic and balanced midfield ahead of the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

“Super Eagles need a very strong midfield to bring out the best in the attackers,” he warned, emphasising that creativity from the middle is the missing link.

He welcomed the introduction of new midfield options included by head coach Eric Chelle, suggesting that their presence could transform the team’s engine room. “I think new midfielders invited by Chelle can make the midfield very strong in the tournament,” he added.

Nigeria have been drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania, and will rely on fresh additions such as Pisa’s Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, to prepare for a tournament where they aim to win a fourth continental crown after missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.