Despite being pooled in a daunting Group A of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco alongside the hosts and reigning champions, Eric Chelle has stated that the only aim his team will have heading into the tournament is to lift the trophy. Nigeria, which is drawn in Group C, faces Tunisia, Uganda and Tanzania at the group stage.
The Super Eagles have a rich history in the tournament, with three title wins (1980, 1994 and 2013). But the painful memory of their narrow loss in the 2023 final, when they fell, 2-1, to Côte d’Ivoire, still looms large as a motivator for the squad and its fans.
In an interview with Cafonline, Chelle said he was looking forward to his team rising to the challenge. “Yes, it is going to be tough to win because there are 24 fantastic teams and some fantastic coaches,” he said. “But I know I’ve got a revenge team, and I’m a revenge guy, too.”
The coach noted that the team is motivated to overcome and realize on that potential. “We know the potential of this team, and our objective is clear — we want to lift the trophy in Morocco.”
Nigeria opened their account against Tanzania on Tuesday, December 23, in Fez determined to kick-start their road to redemption with a bang.
