Former Nigerian international, Tijjani Babangida, believes that a victory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) would serve as vital redemption for the Super Eagles following their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Super Eagles’ hopes of reaching the global showpiece were dashed last month after a 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African play-off final. With that disappointment behind them, Eric Chelle’s squad is now fully focused on securing a fourth AFCON title in Morocco.
Babangida expressed his conviction that an AFCON triumph would go a long way in placating frustrated fans. He told Tribal Football:
“I think that after the unfortunate experience of missing the FIFA World Cup back to back, it is still very painful to digest this reality. However, the next target is the AFCON tournament, which can be used to redeem the image of Nigeria football.”
He stressed the importance of winning the tournament for all involved in Nigerian football, acknowledging the challenge but expressing optimism for the Super Eagles’ chances, even predicting a final appearance.
The Super Eagles are in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda, and will kick off their campaign against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars in Fez on Tuesday, 23rd December.
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