Victor Osimhen-inspired Nigeria are still reeling from another failed World Cup qualification campaign, and the team believes the fastest way to heal is by winning the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Super Eagles had not missed the World Cup twice in a row since 1990, but their recent qualifying attempts ended in disappointment. After finishing behind South Africa in Group C, Nigeria earned a playoff lifeline as one of the best four runners-up.
They thrashed Gabon 4–1 in the semi-final, with Osimhen scoring twice, but were eventually eliminated by the Democratic Republic of Congo on penalties.
Head coach Eric Chelle expressed the emotional toll on the team, saying the players were “suffering,” and must now channel their frustrations into beating opponents.
Osimhen echoed the sentiment, questioning the “golden generation” label Nigerians often use and insisting that the squad must now prove themselves by winning silverware.
He emphasized that Nigeria’s talent pool — filled with stars playing across top European leagues — must start delivering trophies.
Nigeria will compete in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania and Uganda, and will play all their group matches in Fes as top seeds.
Their clash with Tunisia on December 27 is expected to determine the group leader. Historically, both nations have met six times at AFCON, with Nigeria winning three, losing one, and drawing two.
Chelle praised Tunisia’s strong form, noting their recent draw with Brazil in France. He also warned that Uganda and Tanzania pose real threats — Uganda have improved under Belgian coach Paul Put, while Tanzania benefit from a strong domestic league.
The coach admitted to feeling the weight of expectations from about 230 million Nigerians and has avoided social media to stay focused. Chelle previously guided Mali to the 2024 AFCON quarter-finals, narrowly losing 2–1 to hosts Ivory Coast after conceding late goals.
One of his toughest decisions in Morocco will be selecting a frontline from a stacked group of attackers, including Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Adams Akor, Tolu Arokodare and Chidera Ejuke.
Tunisia’s coach Samy Trabelsi described Nigeria as a “continental powerhouse” but remains confident his own side can aim for at least a semi-final finish. Tunisia struggled in AFCON qualifiers but excelled in World Cup qualifiers, going unbeaten with nine wins and 10 clean sheets.
Uganda return to AFCON after missing the last two editions, with Put promising a fearless side, while Tanzania made a late coaching switch, appointing Argentine Miguel Gamondi. Captain Mbwana Samatta has also been recalled as they chase a first AFCON win after three winless tournaments.