AFCON 2025: Ogenyi Onazi Confident Super Eagles Can Claim Fourth Title

Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has thrown his full support behind Nigeria’s chances of winning a fourth Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title at the 2025 tournament in Morocco. His comments come at a time when Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is facing criticism from sections of the fanbase over some of his squad selections and notable omissions.

In an interview with Footy Africa ahead of the tournament, Onazi called on the players to remain focused and united, insisting that doubt from the outside should serve as motivation rather than distraction. He pointed to Nigeria’s memorable AFCON triumph in 2013 as a clear example of how belief and determination can overcome skepticism.

"Just like our team in 2013, we had many new players who made people not believe in us,” Onazi told Footy Africa.

“We knew we had a huge task in front of us, and we decided to give it our best. We were able to lift the title. I expect the same from this set of players.”

Onazi also stressed the importance of mental strength, urging the current crop of Super Eagles to ignore criticism and give everything on the pitch when the tournament begins.

“Forget about what anyone thinks and go hard, real hard, to try and win the title,” he added. “Once you wear that jersey, it does not matter when you play. What matters is your heart.”