2025 AFCON: Onazi Backs Super Eagles to Recreate 2013 AFCON Spirit
Former Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has expressed confidence that Nigeria’s team for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) can repeat the fighting spirit that led to the country’s last title in 2013.
Speaking ahead of the tournament in Morocco, Onazi urged the players to rise to the occasion and make Nigeria proud. His comments come at a time when Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has faced criticism from fans over some omissions and selections in his AFCON squad.
Onazi, who was part of Nigeria’s title-winning team in South Africa in 2013, said he sees clear similarities between the current squad and the youthful team put together by the late Stephen Keshi.
The inclusion of several new players such as Ryan Alebiosu, Tochukwu Nnadi and Salim Fago Lawal has raised concerns among some supporters. However, the former Lazio midfielder believes the presence of fresh faces could work in Nigeria’s favour.
“Just like our team in 2013, we had many new players and people did not believe in us,” Onazi told Footy Africa. “We knew we had a big task ahead, and we gave it everything. In the end, we won the title. I expect the same from this set of players.”
He also advised the players to block out outside pressure and focus fully on their duties whenever they wear the national colours.
“Forget about what anyone thinks and go hard, really hard, to try to win the title,” he said. “Once you wear that jersey, it does not matter when you play. What matters is your heart.”
Onazi, who made 52 appearances for Nigeria, reminded the players of the responsibility they carry as representatives of the country.
“Give your all to the team and remember you are representing Nigeria,” he added. “More than 200 million people are watching you. Just do your best and leave everything on the pitch.”
Onazi’s message comes as the Super Eagles prepare for an international friendly against Egypt on December 16, before travelling to Fès for their AFCON Group C matches against Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda.
