As the 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off today in Ivory Coast, excitement and anticipation run high across the continent. Football is more than just a game in Africa – it is a unifying force and a source of immense pride.
The AFCON brings together the best teams from Africa to compete for the coveted title of champions. Ivory Coast is hosting AFCON for the second time and first since 1984.
It is instructive to note that this tournament was originally planned as the third straight summer edition, in order to avoid clashing with European leagues. However, CAF wisely postponed it to January-February 2024 due to adverse weather concerns in Ivory Coast.
Egypt heads into AFCON 2024 as record seven-time winners. Cameroon (five titles) and Ghana (four) are other African powerhouses.
However, all eyes are on the Super Eagles of Nigeria to end their 10-year title drought. Nigeria last won AFCON in 2013 and we have flattered to deceive in recent tournaments. The low point was missing out on World Cup 2022 – a disaster that 200 million Nigerians are still struggling to comprehend.
However, there is an air of optimism about the Super Eagles’ chances this time. We boast the current best player in Africa – Victor Osimhen. The Napoli striker is in scintillating form and carries the hopes of our football-mad nation on his young shoulders. A focused and firing Osimhen can inspire Nigeria to a fourth AFCON crown.
Sadly, injuries threaten to derail Nigeria’s preparations. Losing red-hot striker Victor Boniface is a massive blow. Fans were relishing the prospect of an Osimhen-Boniface strike partnership terrorizing defenses. Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi and Real Sociedad forward Sadiq Umar will also be missed.
Furthermore, recent performances under manager Jose Peseiro have been underwhelming. The unconvincing displays resulted in taking World Cup qualification to the wire. Many fans are calling for Peseiro’s departure before AFCON kicks off.
The expectations and pressure on the Super Eagles this time are immense. Nigerians demand nothing less than the title – the minimum requirement for this talented squad. The NFF cannot afford to disappoint fans again.
As defending champions, Senegal cannot be taken lightly, who boast superstar Sadio Mane in their ranks. Egypt and Morocco are forces in African football. Recall that Morocco were the first African team to reach the semi finals of a World Cup in Qatar 2022.
Hosts Ivory Coast, Ghana, Algeria, Tunisia and Cameroon will also fancy their chances.
But make no mistake – this AFCON is Nigeria’s to lose. The NFF must provide the best preparation, coaching and support staff to get the best from Osimhen and co.
The team selection must be spot on, with tactics flexible and effective.
With stars like Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze supporting Osimhen, Nigeria has the firepower to outgun any opponent.
The defense appears solid led by William Troost-Ekong. What we need is the hunger, spirit and never-say-die attitude that defined past Nigerian glory teams.
There is no room for egos – it must be about the team, not individuals.
Manager Peseiro has a wealth of talent at his disposal. His job is to select the hungriest players and configure the best system to optimize our strengths. If his tactics or motivation are found lacking, the NFF must not hesitate to act. There is too much at stake this time.
The NFF cannot allow AFCON 2024 to become another tale of wasted potential and what-could-have-been.
At AFCON 2024, the Super Eagles have a chance to heal the pain of past failures and re-establish Nigeria as the powerhouse of African football. The NFF and players must embrace this opportunity to bring joy and pride to millions of long-suffering fans.No more excuses or disappointments.
With focus, desire and unity, the Super Eagles will soar above the competition. The green-white-green will rise again, restoring Nigeria to its rightful place at the pinnacle of African football. After 10 long years, AFCON glory is finally coming back home.
