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Super Eagles Stars Speak With Confidence Ahead of AFCON 2025 Opener Against Tanzania
Nigeria players have voiced confidence, unity, and determination ahead of Nigeria’s opening match against Tanzania at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), as the team looks to make a strong start to the tournament in Morocco.
Towering striker Paul Onuachu stressed the weight of expectations on the team, insisting Nigeria must aim high from the outset.
“As a team, we are expected to get to the final. Nigeria is not a small nation,” Onuachu said. “We have to start from the first game. I am honoured to represent the country. The World Cup is gone, now our full focus is the AFCON and we want to make everything count.”
Defender Chidozie Awaziem echoed the message of focus and respect for opponents, while setting clear group-stage ambitions.
“We are not going to underrate any country or team we play against,” Awaziem stated. “With Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania in the group, we are looking to top the group and progress to the next stage. We want to make ourselves proud.”
For winger Chidera Ejuke, representing Nigeria remains a source of pride and motivation.
“I am always excited to represent the country,” Ejuke said. “Everyone is focused on the AFCON. This is why we gathered here. We want to give our best and make the country proud. I want to help the team with assists and goals.”
AFCON debutant Akor Adams highlighted the collective mindset within the squad, placing emphasis on teamwork over individual brilliance.
“It’s so much about the team and not the players,” Adams noted. “I am grateful to God for the privilege to be part of the team. We should expect a positive outcome. We have worked hard through the qualifiers and we will give our best at the competition.”
2024 African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman kept his message simple, focusing on performance.
“We are all excited to be here and looking forward to the game,” Lookman said. “It’s about performing well.”
Young midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro also expressed gratitude for the opportunity while acknowledging the responsibility that comes with wearing the national colours.
“I feel good being part of the team and I’m grateful,” he said. “We have experienced players and Nigerians are expecting a lot. When given the chance, I will give my best. We want to win this tournament.”
The Super Eagles will face Tanzania in their AFCON 2025 opener on Tuesday, aiming to translate their confidence and unity into a winning start.
