If there was ever a time when Nigerians were doubtful about their national team, it is now. The Super Eagles of Nigeria will compete in the 34th Africa Cup of Nations, which begins today in Ivory Coast. The majority of Nigerians are unconcerned with the outcome of Nigeria’s AFCON 2023 campaign. They are unsure about their team. However, a small percentage of the people remains enthusiastic about Nigeria’s chances in the competition.
The Super Eagles arrived in Abidjan on Wednesday with 24 of the 25-man group that would represent Nigeria at the competition. The players had their first look at the Alassane Quatara Stadium in the evening of the same day, where they will play their first group match against Equatorial Guinea tomorrow.
After the training session, coach Jose Peseiro gave an impassioned statement to the press, saying, “We want to win.” Peseiro’s announcement was intended to serve as a warning to Nigeria’s group opponents, particularly Equatorial Guinea.
Despite his dismal track record, his warning may be construed as a statement of purpose. He has always stated that he aspires of winning the AFCON with the Super Eagles. His confidence, however, has not been matched by results. The Super Eagles’ recent performances do not inspire much confidence.
After failing to secure a ticket to the AFCON, the Super Eagles played four matches against Saudi Arabia (2-2), Mozambique (3-2), Lesotho in Uyo (1-1), and Guinea (2-0). at a 2026 World Cup qualifier at Uyo, the Super Eagles came from behind to tie with Lesotho. Their preparation for the Nations Cup has not been encouraging, and a strong showing in Ivory Coast will come as a surprise to many who have been following them recently.
Peseiro, on the other hand, was belligerent following the defeat to Guinea in Abu Dhabi. “It is important to win of course, I prefer to win than to lose but the game is not important because we tried to use a new system,” he told NFF TV after the game.
Conversely, Equatorial Guinea has won four of their last five games. They have two victories and two draws.
For the Nigerian coach, things have not been easy. His team isn’t as smooth or cohesive as great ones are. The late injuries to several important players have made Peseiro’s job more challenging, especially with a midfield devoid of creativity and a goalie dilemma that persists.
Therefore, in addition to his alleged technical shortcomings, Peseiro must deal with the unsettling lack of dependable players like Taiwo Awoniyi, Victor Boniface, and Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi. Leicester City’s Kelech Iheanaxho, who is currently recovering from an injury, is anticipated to join the squad today. Rumor had it that Sadiq Umar was also hurt. Surely this is enough to turn the coach gray in the hair.
Yet, some Nigerians believe that the three-time African champions, the Super Eagles can still give Nigeria a good representation in Ivory Coast. The team still has a lot of talented players.
In a group that also includes Guinea-Bissau and hosts the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire, the Super Eagles should be able to defeat Equatorial Guinea tomorrow and overcome any opposition thanks to their roster, which includes CAF’s best male player of the year and one of the best strikers in Europe, Victor Osimhen; Terem Moffi of Nice (a late replacement for Victor Boniface); Samuel Chukwueze of AC Milan; experienced Moses Simon of Nantes; Alex Iwobi of Fulham; Calvin Bassey of Fulham; and Ola Aina of Nottingham Forest.
Jose Peseiro now has the responsibility to demonstrate that he is capable of pulling off the unexpected by having a successful game with the Super Eagles. The Eagles can defeat any team on the continent if they have good coordination.
