Time to shine and win: Super Eagles legends rally behind Nigeria ahead of AFCON 2025

 Much of that stems from bold words from Nigerian legends and a genuine sense of new energy around the squad and its coaches. Nigeria wants to win the tournament and not just go to Morocco to participate in it.

Nigeria always starts and shapes the narrative at every AFCON tournament. The side in question has won the cup three times: 1980, 1994, and 2013. Almost always, they reach the semi-finals or at least the knockouts. But there’s a sting, too. Nigeria has lost more AFCON finals than any country, and it’s been over 10 years since they last won. There is this edge in them now, a determination to finally bring the trophy home and end the agony of the near-misses.

In December 2025, Alex Iwobi didn’t hold back. At an event before the tournament, he said, “Of course, yes, at the last AFCON, we were quite close, but the only way we can improve from last AFCON is to win the next one. I think we have the perfect mix; experienced internationals, young stars making waves in Europe, stability and flair, etc.” And he’s not alone. That confidence runs through the team. They know they’re ready.

His optimism isn't empty words. Nigeria boasts a good mix of old and young, with the squad being a fair mix of experienced international campaigners and young budding stars who are presently shining at the top clubs in Europe. Iwobi's comments suggest that the rest of the squad believes they can make history.

For bettors, the Super Eagles remain up there with the best. Those wishing to bet can follow AFCON on Sportytrader for up-to-date tips on the December tournament.

Joseph Yobo, a former Nigeria captain feels that the team can redeem themselves once again in this AFCON. Yobo talked about the importance of a fast start. The Eagles have been placed in a group alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda, a draw that is the most balanced one. Moreover, he further stated that the first two matches of the tournament are most crucial.  Starting off well is always important. Nigeria wouldn’t need to worry about Tunisia if they can get six points from the first two matches.

Members of the squad are well acquainted with one another, and Yobo thinks they won't take too long to click. Many of the players have been together for a long time. Nigeria does not only prioritise qualifying from the group stage but are aiming to lift the trophy as well.

It is already pretty clear that new leaders have been given charge, and Sekou Chelle’s vision is a big one.

Nigeria's new coach, Eric Sekou Chell,e took the helm in March 2025, and the Super Eagles are showing signs of resurgence. From six matches, they’ve won four and drawn the other two. This performance was better than Nigeria’s previous displays.

Chelle is clear about his ambitions. “When you coach Nigeria, you have to win everything.” He believes in respect, unity and mentality, not just talent. He sees it as a team movement and not one of an individual. He’s a guy who can mix strategy and empathy to unite players.  This isn’t just about stars, it’s about a real squad.

Forget the noise and long history. But ultimately, players have a pure craving. The pain from the 2023 final defeat still lingers. Since 2013, they have failed to win. This mission is huge. For many, AFCON 2025 is not just about winning but about redemption, pride, and fulfilling the legacy they have inherited.

Nigeria will not find it easy, despite all the hope in the world and high morale.  The draw puts them up against respectable teams that can produce an upset. They may suffer pain from their last losses and drag the yoke of history.

An individual player’s success will not be enough. There needs to be cohesion under pressure. Consistency needs to be across the 90 minutes. Also, there should be resilience in a knockout scenario. Still, they possess a fiery coach, a confident mixture of experience and youth and considerable support from legends. The Super Eagles seem determined to take on the challenge.

In short, the voices of legends, the hunger of players and the lens of a coach all suggest a Super Eagles squad that’s ready mentally, physically and emotionally to reclaim the crown of Africa.

For Iwobi, it's about faith and potential. For Yobo, it's discipline and momentum. For Chelle, it's unity and ambition. For the squad, it's redemption.