The drums are beating, the flags are waving, and excitement is brewing , the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is almost upon us! But in the heart of football-mad Nigeria, whispers of doubt mingle with the usual pre-tournament optimism. Can the Super Eagles, led by the ever-controversial Jose Peseiro, finally bring home the elusive crown, or will our familiar demons once again snatch victory from the jaws of triumph?
Peseiro has unveiled his 25-man squad, with the iconic Ahmed Musa still proudly wearing the captain’s armband. But the inclusion of only one home-based player, Enyimba’s Olorunleke Ojo, raises eyebrows. Is this a vote of no confidence in the Nigerian league, or a sign of desperation in the face of mounting challenges?
The biggest obstacle, many argue, is the elephant in the room – unpaid wages. Peseiro himself hasn’t seen a kobo from the Nigerian government for months, and it’s no secret that a demoralized team with empty pockets won’t be setting any stadiums alight. Can any amount of “Juju” compensate for the absence of basic motivation?
Critics point to the inclusion of the much-maligned Francis Uzoho as further evidence of Peseiro’s questionable decisions. While Victor Osimhen’s presence inspires hope, can he single-handedly carry a team burdened by off-field turmoil?
Morocco, with their dazzling World Cup display, looms large as a potential champion. While the Super Eagles boast talent and experience, their internal struggles cast a long shadow.
But wait! Amidst the negativity, a flicker of defiance emerges. The Super Eagles themselves, in a show of unwavering spirit, declare on Twitter: “The 25 ready to give their all, ready to do it again!” Can their determination overcome the odds?
This AFCON promises to be a rollercoaster ride for Nigerian fans. We’ll witness moments of breathtaking skill, passionate celebrations, and perhaps even the occasional tear of frustration. One thing’s for sure: every twist and turn will be debated, dissected, and analyzed with fervent passion in every corner of the nation.
Here’s a closer look at Peseiro’s squad:
Goalkeepers:
- Stanley Nwabili (Chippa United, South Africa) – New face in the squad, looking to challenge Uzoho.
- Francis Uzoho (Omonia FC, Cyprus) – Still divides opinion, but Peseiro seems to trust him.
- Olorunleke Ojo (Enyimba FC) – Home-based hero, a symbol of hope for local talent.
Defenders:
- Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England) – Solid full-back with Premier League experience.
- Chidozie Awaziem (Boavista FC, Portugal) – Versatile defender, can play center-back or right-back.
- Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce FC, Turkey) – Energetic wing-back known for his attacking runs.
- William Troost-Ekong (PAOK Salonika, Greece) – Experienced leader returns after a brief absence.
- Bruno Onyemaechi (Boavista FC, Portugal) – Emerging talent, one to watch in the future.
- Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa FC, Turkey) – Reliable center-back, always dependable.
- Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England) – Strong and composed defender.
- Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England) – Youngster with bright future, can play both center-back and left-back.
- Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Portugal) – Attacking left-back with pace and skill.
Midfielders:
- Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England) – The engine of the team, a tireless ball-winner.
- Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium) – Rising star, adds energy and creativity to the midfield.
- Joe Ayodele-Aribo (Southampton FC, England) – Powerful box-to-box midfielder with an eye for goal.
- Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England) – Tenacious tackler, brings defensive stability.
- Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England) – Experienced playmaker, can unlock defenses with his passing.
Forwards:
- Ahmed Musa (Sivasspor K, Turkey) – Veteran captain, still a threat with his pace and experience.
- Victor Osimhen (Napoli SC, Italy) – Star striker, Nigeria’s hopes rest heavily on his shoulders.
- Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England) – Skillful forward, can be a valuable foil for Osimhen.
- Sadiq Umar (Real Sociedad, Spain) – Powerful and prolific goalscorer, in-form after a strong season in Spain.
- Moses Simon (FC Nantes, France) – Speedy winger, known for his dribbling and crossing.
- Ademola Lookman (Atalanta FC, Italy) – Exciting young talent, adding pace and trickery to the attack.
- Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy) – Skillful and unpredictable winger, can create magic out of nothing.
- Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany) – Another young prospect, looking to make his mark on the international stage.
