Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has urged Nigeria’s senior national team to put the disappointment of missing next year’s FIFA World Cup behind them and focus fully on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Nigeria will kick off their AFCON campaign today (Tuesday) with a Group C opener against Tanzania in Fes, as the Super Eagles aims to bounce back from the World Cup setback and pursue a fourth continental title. The group also features Tunisia and Uganda, making progression to the knockout stage a competitive challenge.
Speaking at Monday’s pre-match press conference, Chelle emphasised the need to concentrate on the tournament rather than past disappointments.
“We are here and we have a game tomorrow and also we have a tournament, so we don’t have the time to think about what has happened before,” Chelle said. “This is not the moment to talk about the World Cup qualifiers. For now, the most important thing is this tournament.”
The former Mali national team coach highlighted the significance of a strong start, as he noted that opening matches often set the tone for the rest of the competition.
“Our first game is a big game and the first game is very important, and for sure we want to win this game,” he added.
Chelle and his players will be keen to avoid a repeat of Nigeria’s slow start at the last AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where they were held to a 1-1 draw by Equatorial Guinea. This time, the Super Eagles are determined to begin on a winning note as they chase continental glory.
With focus and determination, Chelle believes a successful AFCON 2025 campaign can restore confidence and pride, reaffirming Nigeria’s status as one of Africa’s football powerhouses.
By: Pascal Amoah
