Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika has expressed confidence that the team will reach the final of the AFCON tournament in Morocco and believes they can go all the way to lift the title, SportPremi reports.
The Super Eagles have lifted the prestigious trophy three times in history, although their last triumph was in 2013, when a goal by Sunday Mba secured a 1-0 win over Burkina Faso in the final.
The West African giants had previously lifted the titles in 1980 when they defeated Algeria in the final and in 1994 when they were victorious over Zambia.
They were agonizingly close to lifting a fourth in the previous African Cup of Nations tournament in Ivory Coast, but they were defeated 2-1 by the host nation in the final match of the competition.
However, the team seemed to be inspired by their recent setbacks including failing to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup, at the ongoing tournament in Morocco.
The three-time African champions have qualified for the round of 16 after winning both of their games in group C so far.
Nigeria defeated Tanzania 2-1 in their opening encounter and were 3-2 winners over Tunisia in one of the most entertaining matches of the competition.
The Super Eagles face Uganda in their final group match later today, hoping to end their group campaign with a 100% record.
Onyedika eyes AFCON glory in Morocco
Raphael Onyedika is among the 10 Nigerian players yet to feature so far at the AFCON tournament, but could make his first appearance from the start against Uganda.
Head coach Eric Chelle is expected to ring the changes to the lineup, giving the Club Brugge midfielder a huge shot at earning a starting berth.
Speaking ahead of the clash, the 24-year-old expressed readiness to play when called up and believes the quality of the team could see them go all the way for glory.
“No one knows who is going to play tomorrow but every player is getting ready because it’s always nice to play in a competition like this which is a big honour”, Onyedika stated.
“With the quality of players that we have maybe we can go as far as the final of everything goes well, because in football there’s a lot involve. So if we have luck on our side we can go as far as the final.”
The midfielder also lauded the impact of Wilfried Ndidi, who was appointed captain ahead of the tournament following the retirement of William Troost-Ekong.
“Under Ndidi’s leadership it feels good, every player is enjoying it”, he concluded.
Nigeria and Uganda meet up at 5 PM today at the Fez Stadium, with both sides chasing victories as they conclude group stage action.
