‘The past is the past’ — Uzoho ready to step up as Super Eagles No. 1 at AFCON 2025

Super Eagles goalkeeper Francis Uzoho says he is fully focused on the task ahead as Nigeria gears up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The experienced shot-stopper insists past criticisms and setbacks will not distract him from delivering when called upon.

Speaking to Elegbete TV Sports, Francis Uzoho reflected on his growing experience with the national team after being named in Nigeria’s AFCON squad for the fourth consecutive tournament.

The 26-year-old highlighted the importance of teamwork among the goalkeepers, stressing that collaboration, not rivalry, defines the group.

“It’s a big number but each of them have their own special abilities and it was great working with each of them,” Uzoho said. “Goalkeeping position is special and we find every possible way to make a good environment for us to work together as a team.”

Uzoho also addressed memories from the last AFCON, where he lost his starting role to Stanley Nwabali despite playing a key role during qualification.

Rather than dwelling on disappointment, he described the experience as a healthy reflection of football’s competitive nature.

“Positively, because it’s a game of competition,” he explained. “Every position in the team we’ve got two or three great players in that position and the competition needs to be there.”

‘The past is the past’ — Uzoho blocks out critics

Uzoho’s inclusion in the AFCON squad has sparked debate among fans, with questions raised about his form and consistency. The goalkeeper, however, made it clear that criticism does not affect his mindset.

“The past is the past. I don’t dwell in the past,” he stated. “Every time I get the opportunity to participate in the AFCON, I always give my best, and that’s what I intend to do if I get the opportunity this time around.”

He reaffirmed his willingness to support whoever earns the starting role, adding, “When he was chosen to be the number one choice I had to support him, and that’s what I’ll do now if he is still the one that will play.”

As Nigeria prepares to face Tanzania in their AFCON opener on December 23, it remains to be seen if Uzoho will be given the chance to play over Nwabali, who has struggled with fitness recently, but the consensus appears to lie with the Chippa United goalkeeper retaining his starting berth.