Former Nigerian defender Godfrey Oboabona has advised the Super Eagles to avoid underestimating any opponent at the 2025 African Cup of Nations tournament, SportPremi reports.
Nigeria head into the tournament as one of the favorites alongside the likes of Senegal, Morocco, Egypt and defending champions Ivory Coast.
The Super Eagles, led by talisman Victor Osimhen will be gunning for a fourth continental title and an improved performance from the previous edition held in Ivory Coast.
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In 2023, the three-time champions overcame all odds to reach the final of that edition under former head coach Jose Peseiro, although they suffered a 2-1 defeat to the host nation to end with silver medal.
They had also previously won bronze in 2019 and will be hoping to end their long drought in Morocco.
Oboabona cautions Super Eagles ahead of 2025 AFCON
Godfrey Oboabona was a key figure when Nigeria last lifted the African Cup of Nations in the 2013 edition held in South Africa.
The defender played every minute of the final match as the Super Eagles edged Burkina Faso 1-0 in Johannesburg to lift their third title.
Speaking ahead of the 2025 edition as the country seek a fourth crown, the former Rizespor center-back warned the team against underestimating any opponent.
“Nigeria is always among the favourites at every AFCON, and with determination and by treating every game like a final, victory is possible.
“However, the tournament also features very strong teams. Nations such as Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, and more recently Cape Verde and Gabon, are formidable contenders for the title. For Nigeria to win, they must earn it through hard work”, Oboabona warned.
“The Super Eagles must believe in themselves and approach every match without fear. A strong winning mentality within the group is essential—sometimes you have to dream first and truly believe it’s achievable.
“The team also needs unity, staying together like a family; that spirit was a key part of our success in our time.”
Nigeria Eye Redemption at AFCON 2025
The 2025 edition of the African Cup of Nations will commence later tonight as host nations Morocco face Comoros in Rabat.
Nigeria begin their own campaign on Tuesday against Tanzania, eyeing a winning start in their hunt for continental glory.
The Super Eagles faced further heartbreak last month after they lost out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Leopards beat Nigeria on penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in the CAF playoff final to end any hopes of playing at the showpiece event.
However, the AFCON offers a chance at redemption as a victory would ease nerves and erase memories of recent failures and setbacks for the national team.
